Key Insights
The global steel tape measure market for construction is poised for substantial expansion, propelled by escalating global construction activity and significant infrastructure development initiatives. The market, valued at $1655.4 million in the base year 2025, is forecast to achieve a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% between 2025 and 2033. This trajectory is underpinned by key drivers including accelerating urbanization, the integration of advanced construction methodologies necessitating precision measurement, and a growing preference for durable, dependable measuring instruments. Leading manufacturers such as Stanley Black & Decker, Komelon, and Techtronic Industries are actively pursuing innovation, introducing features like laser integration, digital displays, and ergonomic enhancements to meet evolving industry requirements and boost site productivity. Nevertheless, the market contends with challenges such as volatility in steel raw material costs and the rise of competing technologies, including laser distance meters.

Steel Tape Measures for Construction Market Size (In Billion)

The long-term outlook for steel tape measures in the construction sector remains highly optimistic. Continued investment in global infrastructure, coupled with the enduring advantages of steel tape measures—durability, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness—ensures their sustained relevance. Future growth will likely be further stimulated by innovations in material science, potentially yielding more robust and lighter tools, and the increasing demand for high-precision measurements in specialized projects like high-rise structures and complex infrastructure. Regional market dynamics will be shaped by economic development, urbanization trends, and the nature of specific infrastructure undertakings.

Steel Tape Measures for Construction Company Market Share

Steel Tape Measures for Construction Market Report: A Comprehensive Analysis (2019-2033)
This insightful report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global steel tape measures for construction market, offering a detailed examination of market trends, competitive dynamics, and future growth prospects. Valued at $XX million in 2025, the market is poised for significant expansion, reaching an estimated $XX million by 2033. This report covers the historical period (2019-2024), base year (2025), and forecast period (2025-2033), delivering invaluable insights for stakeholders across the construction industry.
Steel Tape Measures for Construction Market Composition & Trends
This section analyzes the market's competitive landscape, innovation drivers, regulatory environment, and end-user preferences. The market is moderately concentrated, with key players like Stanley Black & Decker, Komelon, and Techtronic Industries (Milwaukee Tool) holding significant market share. However, the presence of numerous smaller regional players contributes to a dynamic competitive environment.
- Market Share Distribution (2025): Stanley Black & Decker (30%), Techtronic Industries (Milwaukee Tool) (25%), Komelon (15%), Others (30%) (These figures are estimates.)
- Innovation Catalysts: Advancements in materials science (e.g., stronger, lighter tapes), improved ergonomic designs, and the integration of digital technologies (e.g., Bluetooth connectivity for data logging).
- Regulatory Landscape: Compliance with safety standards and building codes significantly influences product design and manufacturing processes. Varying regulations across regions create complexities for global players.
- Substitute Products: Laser measuring devices and digital rangefinders present competition, although steel tape measures remain prevalent due to their durability, affordability, and ease of use in various construction scenarios.
- End-User Profiles: The primary end-users are construction companies (residential and commercial), contractors, and DIY enthusiasts. Market segmentation by end-user application is essential for strategic planning.
- M&A Activities (2019-2024): While specific deal values are not publicly available for all transactions, there have been several acquisitions and mergers amongst smaller players, reflecting consolidation within the industry with a total M&A value estimated at $XX million.
Steel Tape Measures for Construction Industry Evolution
The steel tape measure market has witnessed a steady growth trajectory from 2019 to 2024, driven primarily by robust construction activity globally. The market experienced a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of XX% during this period. The increasing adoption of advanced materials like high-strength steel and improved coating technologies is a key aspect of this growth. Emerging markets, coupled with the rising demand for infrastructure development and renovations, are further boosting market growth. However, economic fluctuations and material cost increases can impact growth rates in certain years. The projected CAGR for 2025-2033 is XX%, indicating continued market expansion, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects worldwide and rising consumer demand. The integration of digital functionalities like integrated cameras and Bluetooth connectivity is expected to revolutionize the market and drive further adoption. Furthermore, increasing awareness of sustainability and the demand for eco-friendly products is leading to the development of more durable and recyclable tape measures.
Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in Steel Tape Measures for Construction
The North American construction market currently leads the steel tape measure demand due to significant infrastructure spending and a strong residential construction sector. Asia-Pacific is a rapidly growing region owing to urbanization and massive infrastructure projects.
- Key Drivers for North America's Dominance:
- High levels of construction investment, both residential and commercial.
- Stringent building codes and safety regulations promoting high-quality tools.
- Established distribution networks and a strong presence of major players.
- Key Drivers for Asia-Pacific Growth:
- Rapid urbanization and significant investments in infrastructure.
- Rising disposable incomes fueling DIY and home improvement activities.
- Increased adoption of advanced construction techniques.
Steel Tape Measures for Construction Product Innovations
Recent innovations in steel tape measures focus on enhancing durability, precision, and user experience. Features like blade coatings for increased abrasion resistance, ergonomic handles, and improved locking mechanisms are becoming standard. The integration of digital features, such as laser distance measurement capabilities and Bluetooth connectivity, are emerging as premium features, enhancing productivity and data management on construction sites. These advanced features command higher prices and cater to professional users.
Propelling Factors for Steel Tape Measures for Construction Growth
The market's growth is fueled by several key factors. Robust growth in the construction sector globally remains a primary driver. Government investments in infrastructure development in both developed and developing nations are significantly boosting demand. Furthermore, advancements in materials and manufacturing processes continuously improve the product's durability and precision, further fueling market growth.
Obstacles in the Steel Tape Measures for Construction Market
The market faces challenges, such as fluctuations in raw material prices (steel and other components) significantly impacting production costs and profitability. Supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical events or natural disasters can lead to delays and shortages, impacting sales. Increased competition from digital measurement tools also presents a moderate challenge to traditional steel tape measures.
Future Opportunities in Steel Tape Measures for Construction
Future opportunities lie in expanding into emerging markets with growing construction sectors. The development of more sustainable and eco-friendly steel tape measures, using recycled materials and minimizing environmental impact, presents a key area for growth. Integration of innovative technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and improved digital connectivity, will drive higher product value and appeal to new user segments.
Major Players in the Steel Tape Measures for Construction Ecosystem
Key Developments in Steel Tape Measures for Construction Industry
- 2022 Q3: Stanley Black & Decker launched a new line of ergonomic tape measures emphasizing improved grip and reduced hand fatigue.
- 2023 Q1: Komelon introduced a tape measure with a built-in laser distance measurer.
- 2024 Q4: Techtronic Industries (Milwaukee Tool) released a durable, high-visibility tape measure for improved visibility in challenging work environments. (Further developments require specific data.)
Strategic Steel Tape Measures for Construction Market Forecast
The global steel tape measures for construction market is expected to experience sustained growth over the forecast period. This growth will be driven by continued investment in infrastructure projects globally, coupled with advancements in product technology enhancing efficiency and user experience. The emergence of eco-friendly products and integration of advanced features will also play a crucial role in shaping market expansion. The focus on improved durability and precision will continue to underpin the market's growth trajectory, securing its place as an indispensable tool in the construction industry.
Steel Tape Measures for Construction Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. House
- 1.2. Commercial Building
- 1.3. Industrial Plant
- 1.4. Public Construction
-
2. Types
- 2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
Steel Tape Measures for Construction Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico
-
2. South America
- 2.1. Brazil
- 2.2. Argentina
- 2.3. Rest of South America
-
3. Europe
- 3.1. United Kingdom
- 3.2. Germany
- 3.3. France
- 3.4. Italy
- 3.5. Spain
- 3.6. Russia
- 3.7. Benelux
- 3.8. Nordics
- 3.9. Rest of Europe
-
4. Middle East & Africa
- 4.1. Turkey
- 4.2. Israel
- 4.3. GCC
- 4.4. North Africa
- 4.5. South Africa
- 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
-
5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. China
- 5.2. India
- 5.3. Japan
- 5.4. South Korea
- 5.5. ASEAN
- 5.6. Oceania
- 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific

Steel Tape Measures for Construction Regional Market Share

Geographic Coverage of Steel Tape Measures for Construction
Steel Tape Measures for Construction REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 4.3% from 2020-2034 |
| 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
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 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. Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. House
- 5.1.2. Commercial Building
- 5.1.3. Industrial Plant
- 5.1.4. Public Construction
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Types
- 5.2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 5.2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. North America
- 5.3.2. South America
- 5.3.3. Europe
- 5.3.4. Middle East & Africa
- 5.3.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. House
- 6.1.2. Commercial Building
- 6.1.3. Industrial Plant
- 6.1.4. Public Construction
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Types
- 6.2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 6.2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. House
- 7.1.2. Commercial Building
- 7.1.3. Industrial Plant
- 7.1.4. Public Construction
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Types
- 7.2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 7.2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. House
- 8.1.2. Commercial Building
- 8.1.3. Industrial Plant
- 8.1.4. Public Construction
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Types
- 8.2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 8.2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. House
- 9.1.2. Commercial Building
- 9.1.3. Industrial Plant
- 9.1.4. Public Construction
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Types
- 9.2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 9.2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.1.1. House
- 10.1.2. Commercial Building
- 10.1.3. Industrial Plant
- 10.1.4. Public Construction
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Types
- 10.2.1. Pocket Steel Tape Measures
- 10.2.2. Long Steel Tape Measures
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2025
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Stanley Black & Decker
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Komelon
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Techtronic Industries (Milwaukee Tool)
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Stanley Black & Decker
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Breakdown (million, %) by Region 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 3: North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 4: North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 5: North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 6: North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 7: North America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 8: South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 9: South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 10: South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 11: South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 12: South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 13: South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 14: Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 15: Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 16: Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 17: Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 18: Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 19: Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 20: Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 21: Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 22: Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 23: Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 24: Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 25: Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 26: Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 27: Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Application 2025 & 2033
- Figure 28: Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 29: Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Types 2025 & 2033
- Figure 30: Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million), by Country 2025 & 2033
- Figure 31: Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue Share (%), by Country 2025 & 2033
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Types 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Types 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: United States Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: Canada Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Mexico Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Types 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Brazil Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Argentina Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Rest of South America Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Types 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: United Kingdom Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: Germany Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 21: France Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 22: Italy Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 23: Spain Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 24: Russia Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 25: Benelux Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 26: Nordics Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 27: Rest of Europe Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 28: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 29: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Types 2020 & 2033
- Table 30: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 31: Turkey Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 32: Israel Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 33: GCC Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 34: North Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 35: South Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 36: Rest of Middle East & Africa Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 37: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 38: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Types 2020 & 2033
- Table 39: Global Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 40: China Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 41: India Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 42: Japan Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 43: South Korea Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 44: ASEAN Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 45: Oceania Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
- Table 46: Rest of Asia Pacific Steel Tape Measures for Construction Revenue (million) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Steel Tape Measures for Construction?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.3%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Steel Tape Measures for Construction?
Key companies in the market include Stanley Black & Decker, Komelon, Techtronic Industries (Milwaukee Tool).
3. What are the main segments of the Steel Tape Measures for Construction?
The market segments include Application, Types.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 1655.4 million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
N/A
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
N/A
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
N/A
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4900.00, USD 7350.00, and USD 9800.00 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.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Steel Tape Measures for Construction," 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 Steel Tape Measures for Construction 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 Steel Tape Measures for Construction?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Steel Tape Measures for Construction, 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

