Key Insights
The European data center construction market, valued at €13.24 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.36% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. The burgeoning digital economy necessitates increased data storage and processing capabilities, fueling demand for modern data center infrastructure across various sectors. The increasing adoption of cloud computing, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) further contributes to this demand. Furthermore, government initiatives promoting digital transformation and robust cybersecurity measures are creating a favorable environment for data center construction. Significant investments from both private and public sectors are also playing a pivotal role in market growth. Key segments driving this expansion include Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI), IT and Telecommunications, and Government and Defense sectors, with Tier-I and -II data centers experiencing the most rapid growth due to their superior connectivity and infrastructure. While construction costs and regulatory hurdles present some challenges, the long-term prospects for the European data center construction market remain highly positive.
The market is segmented by end-user (BFSI, IT & Telecom, Government & Defense, Healthcare, and Others), infrastructure type (electrical, mechanical, and general construction), and tier type (Tier I-IV). Leading players like Jacobs Solutions Inc., Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, and others are actively competing in this dynamic market. Regional analysis reveals strong growth across major European economies, including Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands, driven by their robust digital infrastructure and economic activity. However, variations in regulatory frameworks and economic conditions across different countries within Europe will influence the pace of growth in specific regions. The ongoing expansion of 5G networks and the rise of edge computing are also expected to contribute significantly to future market expansion. The forecast period (2025-2033) promises continued growth, although the pace might fluctuate due to macroeconomic factors and technological advancements.
This dynamic report provides a detailed analysis of the United States data center construction market, offering invaluable insights for investors, industry professionals, and strategic decision-makers. With a comprehensive study period spanning 2019-2033 (Base Year: 2025, Forecast Period: 2025-2033), this report leverages robust data and expert analysis to illuminate market trends, opportunities, and challenges. The report projects significant growth, driven by increasing data consumption, cloud computing adoption, and substantial investments in digital infrastructure.

United States Data Center Construction Market Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
The US data center construction market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with key players such as Jacobs Solutions Inc, Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, Gilbane Building Company, DPR Construction, McCarthy Building Companies Inc, Hensel Phelps, Brasfield & Gorrie LL, Balfour Beatty US, AECOM, and Skanska USA holding significant market share. The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) is estimated at xx, indicating a moderately competitive landscape. Innovation is a primary driver, with companies investing heavily in advanced construction techniques, sustainable building practices, and prefabrication methods to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Regulatory factors, including building codes and environmental regulations, play a significant role in shaping market dynamics. Product substitutes are limited, primarily encompassing alternative construction materials and methods. The market is segmented by end-user (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance; IT and Telecommunications; Government and Defense; Healthcare; Other End Users), infrastructure (Electrical Infrastructure, Mechanical Infrastructure, General Construction), and Tier type (Tier-I and -II, Tier-III, Tier-IV). Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been moderate in recent years, with xx deals recorded between 2019 and 2024, suggesting consolidation trends within the industry.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, HHI estimated at xx.
- Innovation Drivers: Advanced construction techniques, sustainable building practices, prefabrication.
- Regulatory Impacts: Building codes, environmental regulations significantly influence market dynamics.
- End-User Segmentation: Significant variations in demand across sectors (IT & Telecommunications expected to lead).
- M&A Trends: Moderate activity, with xx deals from 2019-2024 suggesting potential for further consolidation.
United States Data Center Construction Market Market Trends & Opportunities
The US data center construction market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the exponential increase in data generation and the widespread adoption of cloud computing and edge computing technologies. The market size is projected to reach USD xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Technological advancements, such as modular data center designs and AI-driven construction management, are enhancing efficiency and reducing construction timelines. Consumer preference for high-speed internet and reliable digital services fuels demand for robust data center infrastructure. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense competition among established players and the emergence of new entrants. Market penetration rates for advanced construction technologies are increasing, with xx% adoption expected by 2033. The market presents significant opportunities for companies that can offer innovative solutions, optimize construction processes, and cater to the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient data centers.

Dominant Markets & Segments in United States Data Center Construction Market
The IT and Telecommunications sector represents the most dominant end-user segment, followed by Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance. Geographically, the market is concentrated in major technology hubs like California, Virginia, and Texas. Tier III data centers constitute the largest segment by tier type, driven by their scalability and resilience.
Key Growth Drivers:
- IT and Telecommunications: High demand for colocation and wholesale data center space.
- Government and Defense: Increased investment in cybersecurity and national data infrastructure.
- Technological Advancements: Modular data center designs and AI-driven construction management.
- Favorable Regulatory Environment: Supportive policies promoting digital infrastructure development.
Market Dominance Analysis: California leads in terms of market size, driven by the high concentration of technology companies. The IT and Telecom sector’s continuous expansion significantly impacts the demand for Tier III data centers.
United States Data Center Construction Market Product Analysis
The market features a range of products and services, including general construction, electrical and mechanical infrastructure design and build, and specialized data center construction solutions. Technological advancements, such as prefabrication and modular construction, are improving efficiency, reducing costs, and accelerating project completion times. These innovations offer significant competitive advantages by enabling faster deployment and enhanced scalability. The market fit for these solutions is strong due to the increasing demand for speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in data center construction.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in United States Data Center Construction Market
Key Drivers: Increasing data consumption, cloud computing adoption, government initiatives promoting digital infrastructure, and technological advancements in data center design and construction. The USD 1.3 Billion investment by Prime Data Centers in Texas (February 2024) exemplifies this trend.
Challenges & Restraints: Supply chain disruptions impacting material availability and costs, stringent regulatory compliance requirements, and intense competition among construction firms. These factors could lead to project delays and increased costs. The impact of these challenges could be quantified by measuring project delays or cost overruns.
Growth Drivers in the United States Data Center Construction Market Market
The exponential growth in data generation, the expansion of cloud computing, and the increasing demand for edge computing are key drivers. Government support for digital infrastructure development through grants and tax incentives also fuels market growth. Technological advancements in sustainable building practices and modular design further accelerate market expansion.
Challenges Impacting United States Data Center Construction Market Growth
Supply chain constraints, particularly in securing specialized equipment and materials, pose a significant challenge. Rising material costs and labor shortages contribute to increased project costs and delays. Complex regulatory hurdles and environmental compliance requirements add to the complexities.
Key Players Shaping the United States Data Center Construction Market Market
- Jacobs Solutions Inc
- Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
- Gilbane Building Company
- DPR Construction
- McCarthy Building Companies Inc
- Hensel Phelps
- Brasfield & Gorrie LL
- Balfour Beatty US
- AECOM
- Skanska USA
Significant United States Data Center Construction Market Industry Milestones
- February 2024: Prime Data Centers proposes a USD 1.3 Billion data center complex in Texas, signaling significant investment in the sector.
- November 2023: H5 Data Centres expands its San Antonio data center, adding 340 cabinets and 1.5 MW of UPS capacity, showcasing growth in colocation and wholesale data center markets.
- 2023: Five new telecommunications operators deploy infrastructure on a data center campus, highlighting the expansion of network-rich ecosystems.
Future Outlook for United States Data Center Construction Market Market
The US data center construction market is poised for continued strong growth, driven by ongoing digital transformation and the expanding need for robust digital infrastructure. Strategic opportunities exist for companies offering sustainable, efficient, and technologically advanced construction solutions. The market's potential is substantial, with significant growth anticipated across various segments and geographic regions.
United States Data Center Construction Market Segmentation
-
1. Infrastructure
-
1.1. Electrical Infrastructure
- 1.1.1. UPS Systems
- 1.1.2. Other Electrical Infrastructure
-
1.2. Mechanical Infrastructure
- 1.2.1. Cooling Systems
- 1.2.2. Racks
- 1.2.3. Other Mechanical Infrastructure
- 1.3. General Construction
-
1.1. Electrical Infrastructure
-
2. Tier Type
- 2.1. Tier-I and -II
- 2.2. Tier-III
- 2.3. Tier-IV
-
3. End User
- 3.1. Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance
- 3.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 3.3. Government and Defense
- 3.4. Healthcare
- 3.5. Other End Users
United States Data Center Construction Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States

United States Data Center Construction Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 8.36% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1 4.; Growing Cloud Applications
- 3.2.2 AI
- 3.2.3 and Big Data4.; Rising Adoption of Hyperscale Data Centers
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Increase in Real Estate Costs
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. UPS Systems to Lead the Electrical Infrastructure Segment
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Infrastructure
- 5.1.1. Electrical Infrastructure
- 5.1.1.1. UPS Systems
- 5.1.1.2. Other Electrical Infrastructure
- 5.1.2. Mechanical Infrastructure
- 5.1.2.1. Cooling Systems
- 5.1.2.2. Racks
- 5.1.2.3. Other Mechanical Infrastructure
- 5.1.3. General Construction
- 5.1.1. Electrical Infrastructure
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Tier Type
- 5.2.1. Tier-I and -II
- 5.2.2. Tier-III
- 5.2.3. Tier-IV
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.3.1. Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance
- 5.3.2. IT and Telecommunications
- 5.3.3. Government and Defense
- 5.3.4. Healthcare
- 5.3.5. Other End Users
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United States
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Infrastructure
- 6. Germany United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 6.1.1. undefined
- 7. France United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 7.1.1. undefined
- 8. United Kingdom United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 8.1.1. undefined
- 9. Netherlands United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 9.1.1. undefined
- 10. Ireland United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1. undefined
- 11. Switzerland United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1. undefined
- 12. Denmark United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1. undefined
- 13. Sweden United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1. undefined
- 14. Italy United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 14.1.1. undefined
- 15. Poland United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 15.1.1. undefined
- 16. Norway United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 16.1.1. undefined
- 17. Austria United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 17.1.1. undefined
- 18. Spain United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 18.1.1. undefined
- 19. Rest of Europe United States Data Center Construction Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 19.1.1. undefined
- 20. Competitive Analysis
- 20.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 20.2. Company Profiles
- 20.2.1 Jacobs Solutions Inc
- 20.2.1.1. Overview
- 20.2.1.2. Products
- 20.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.2 Whiting-turner Contracting Company
- 20.2.2.1. Overview
- 20.2.2.2. Products
- 20.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.3 Gilbane Building Company
- 20.2.3.1. Overview
- 20.2.3.2. Products
- 20.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.4 DPR Construction
- 20.2.4.1. Overview
- 20.2.4.2. Products
- 20.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.5 McCarthy Building Companies Inc
- 20.2.5.1. Overview
- 20.2.5.2. Products
- 20.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.6 Hensel Phelps
- 20.2.6.1. Overview
- 20.2.6.2. Products
- 20.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.7 Brasfield & Gorrie LL
- 20.2.7.1. Overview
- 20.2.7.2. Products
- 20.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.8 Balfour Beatty US
- 20.2.8.1. Overview
- 20.2.8.2. Products
- 20.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.9 AECOM
- 20.2.9.1. Overview
- 20.2.9.2. Products
- 20.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.10 Skanska USA
- 20.2.10.1. Overview
- 20.2.10.2. Products
- 20.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 20.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 20.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 20.2.1 Jacobs Solutions Inc
List of Figures
- Figure 1: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: United States Data Center Construction Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Infrastructure 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Infrastructure 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Infrastructure 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Infrastructure 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: United States Data Center Construction Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: United States Data Center Construction Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the United States Data Center Construction Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 8.36%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the United States Data Center Construction Market?
Key companies in the market include Jacobs Solutions Inc, Whiting-turner Contracting Company, Gilbane Building Company, DPR Construction, McCarthy Building Companies Inc, Hensel Phelps, Brasfield & Gorrie LL, Balfour Beatty US, AECOM, Skanska USA.
3. What are the main segments of the United States Data Center Construction Market?
The market segments include Infrastructure, Tier Type, End User.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 13.24 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Growing Cloud Applications. AI. and Big Data4.; Rising Adoption of Hyperscale Data Centers.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
UPS Systems to Lead the Electrical Infrastructure Segment.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Increase in Real Estate Costs.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In February 2024, in Caldwell County outside of Austin, Texas, Prime Data Centers proposed to construct a USD 1.3 billion data center complex. Such investments from the data center providers will create more demand for DC construction players in the near future.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in K Unit.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "United States Data Center Construction Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the United States Data Center Construction Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the United States Data Center Construction Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the United States Data Center Construction Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence