Key Insights
The European digital forensics market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing sophistication of cybercrime, stringent data privacy regulations like GDPR, and the rising adoption of digital technologies across various sectors. The market, valued at approximately €1.5 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.90% from 2025 to 2033, indicating substantial expansion. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The surge in cyberattacks targeting businesses and government entities necessitates advanced digital forensics solutions for investigation and evidence gathering. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of cloud computing and mobile devices expands the scope of digital forensic investigations, driving demand for specialized software and services. The government and law enforcement agencies segment represents a significant portion of the market, followed by the BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance) sector, which is increasingly vulnerable to financial fraud and data breaches. The hardware segment, comprising specialized forensic tools and equipment, is expected to witness steady growth, alongside a faster expansion in the software and services segments, particularly those offering cloud-based solutions and advanced analytics capabilities. Competitive dynamics are shaped by established players like IBM, Nuix, and OpenText, alongside specialized forensic firms like Envista Forensics and MSAB.
Within the European market, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are leading contributors, driven by strong regulatory frameworks and a high concentration of financial institutions and technology companies. However, growth is anticipated across other European nations as awareness of cyber threats and the importance of digital forensics increases. While the market faces certain restraints, such as the high cost of advanced forensic technologies and a shortage of skilled professionals, these are largely offset by the strong demand drivers. The continued expansion of digital data, escalating cybercrime rates, and increasingly stringent regulatory compliance requirements ensure the long-term growth trajectory of the European digital forensics market. Market segmentation by component (hardware, software, services), type (mobile, computer, network forensics), and end-user industry provides a granular understanding of growth opportunities within specific niches. The focus on advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and cloud-based solutions will shape future market dynamics, demanding continuous innovation and adaptation from market players.

Europe Digital Forensics Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the Europe Digital Forensics Market, covering market dynamics, industry trends, leading segments, key players, and future growth prospects from 2019 to 2033. The study period spans 2019-2024 (Historical Period), with 2025 as the base and estimated year, and 2025-2033 representing the forecast period. This report is crucial for stakeholders seeking actionable insights into this rapidly evolving market, valued at xx Million in 2025 and projected to reach xx Million by 2033. High-growth keywords such as digital forensics, cybersecurity, mobile forensics, network forensics, Europe, and market analysis are strategically incorporated to maximize search engine visibility.
Europe Digital Forensics Market Dynamics & Concentration
The Europe Digital Forensics Market is characterized by a moderately concentrated landscape with several major players and numerous smaller niche players. Market share is largely held by established firms such as Envista Forensics, FireEye Inc, Nuix, IBM Corporation, MSAB Inc, LogRhythm Inc, Guidance Software Inc (Opentext), and PricewaterhouseCoopers. However, the market shows signs of increasing fragmentation due to the emergence of specialized startups offering innovative solutions.
- Market Concentration: The top five players collectively hold approximately xx% of the market share in 2025.
- Innovation Drivers: Increasing cybercrime, stringent data privacy regulations (GDPR), and the growing adoption of cloud computing and IoT devices are key innovation drivers.
- Regulatory Frameworks: The GDPR and other data protection regulations have significantly influenced the market by driving demand for robust digital forensics solutions.
- Product Substitutes: Limited direct substitutes exist, but alternative methods like cloud-based data recovery services could pose indirect competition.
- End-User Trends: Government and Law Enforcement Agencies, BFSI, and IT and Telecom sectors are leading adopters of digital forensics solutions.
- M&A Activities: The market has witnessed a moderate level of M&A activity in recent years, with xx deals recorded between 2019 and 2024. These activities are primarily driven by the consolidation of the market and expansion into new geographical regions and service offerings. For example, Eurofins Cyber Security UK’s acquisition of Eurofins Forensics Services' digital forensics division in March 2022 significantly expanded its market reach.
Europe Digital Forensics Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The Europe Digital Forensics Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by escalating cyber threats and the increasing complexity of digital investigations. The market is expected to register a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Technological advancements, including AI and machine learning in forensic analysis, are driving efficiency and accuracy. Consumer preferences are shifting towards cloud-based and SaaS solutions due to their scalability and cost-effectiveness. Competitive dynamics are intense, with companies focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and geographic expansion. Market penetration is highest in developed European nations with robust digital infrastructure and stringent cybersecurity regulations. Significant market growth is anticipated in emerging economies within Europe as digitalization accelerates.

Leading Markets & Segments in Europe Digital Forensics Market
The report identifies [Country Name] as the leading market within Europe, fueled by factors including:
- Strong Government Spending: Significant investment in cybersecurity infrastructure and digital forensic capabilities.
- High Cybercrime Rates: A growing need for advanced solutions to combat sophisticated cyberattacks.
- Robust Legal Framework: Supportive regulations that mandate the use of digital forensics in legal investigations.
Dominant Segments:
- Component: The Services segment holds the largest market share, driven by the increasing need for expertise in digital investigation and analysis. The Hardware segment is experiencing steady growth due to technological advancements in data storage and retrieval.
- Type: Computer forensics maintains the largest segment share, although mobile forensics is witnessing rapid growth due to the widespread adoption of smartphones and mobile devices. Network forensics is a rapidly growing segment owing to the increase in cyberattacks targeted at networks.
- End-user Industry: Government and Law Enforcement Agencies dominate the market, followed by the BFSI and IT & Telecom sectors. The increasing reliance on digital systems in these sectors fuels the demand for robust security and forensic solutions.
Europe Digital Forensics Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations include advanced data recovery tools, AI-powered forensic analysis software, and cloud-based forensic platforms. These developments offer enhanced speed, accuracy, and scalability, meeting the evolving needs of investigators and businesses. The key competitive advantage lies in providing comprehensive solutions, incorporating cutting-edge technologies, and offering specialized expertise in specific areas like mobile or network forensics.
Key Drivers of Europe Digital Forensics Market Growth
The market's growth is fueled by several key drivers:
- Rising Cybercrime: A surge in cyberattacks and data breaches necessitate advanced digital forensic solutions for investigations and remediation.
- Stringent Data Privacy Regulations: Regulations like GDPR necessitate robust digital forensics capabilities for compliance and incident response.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in AI, machine learning, and cloud computing enhance the efficiency and accuracy of forensic investigations.
Challenges in the Europe Digital Forensics Market Market
The market faces certain challenges:
- High Costs: Specialized hardware, software, and skilled professionals can lead to high initial investment costs.
- Skill Shortages: A lack of qualified digital forensic experts can hinder the effective implementation of solutions.
- Data Complexity: The ever-increasing complexity of digital data sources presents challenges in data analysis and interpretation.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Digital Forensics Market
Emerging opportunities include the expanding use of cloud-based forensic platforms, increased collaboration between public and private sector organizations, and the development of specialized solutions for IoT and cloud-based environments. Furthermore, advancements in AI and big data analytics open up possibilities for automated forensic analysis, increasing efficiency and reducing response times.
Leading Players in the Europe Digital Forensics Market Sector
- Envista Forensics
- FireEye Inc
- Nuix
- IBM Corporation
- MSAB Inc
- LogRhythm Inc
- Guidance Software Inc (Opentext)
- PricewaterhouseCoopers
Key Milestones in Europe Digital Forensics Market Industry
- December 2022: The European Commission's EUR 7.25 Million agreement with the ICC significantly improves the court's digital evidence handling capabilities, particularly aiding investigations into the Ukraine conflict.
- March 2022: Eurofins Cyber Security UK's acquisition of Eurofins Forensics Services' digital forensics division expanded its service offerings, increasing market competition.
Strategic Outlook for Europe Digital Forensics Market Market
The Europe Digital Forensics Market holds immense potential for future growth. Strategic opportunities include focusing on specialized niche areas, investing in R&D to develop innovative solutions, expanding into new geographical markets, and forging strategic alliances to broaden service offerings. The increasing digitization across all sectors and the continuing evolution of cyber threats will fuel consistent market expansion throughout the forecast period.
Europe Digital Forensics Market Segmentation
-
1. Component
- 1.1. Hardware
- 1.2. Software
- 1.3. Services
-
2. Type
- 2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 2.2. Computer Forensics
- 2.3. Network Forensics
- 2.4. Other Types
-
3. End-user Industry
- 3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 3.2. BFSI
- 3.3. IT and Telecom
- 3.4. Other End-user Industries
Europe Digital Forensics Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United Kingdom
- 2. Germany
- 3. France
- 4. Italy
- 5. Rest of Europe

Europe Digital Forensics 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 10.90% 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. Growing Adoption of IoT Devices Driving the Demand for Digital Forensic Solutions and Services; Growing Cybercrimes and Security Concerns across Industries
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Consumers Desire for Fine Dining Experience
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Growing Adoption of IoT Devices is Driving the Demand for Digital Forensic Solutions and Services
- 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. Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 5.1.1. Hardware
- 5.1.2. Software
- 5.1.3. Services
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 5.2.2. Computer Forensics
- 5.2.3. Network Forensics
- 5.2.4. Other Types
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 5.3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 5.3.2. BFSI
- 5.3.3. IT and Telecom
- 5.3.4. Other End-user Industries
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United Kingdom
- 5.4.2. Germany
- 5.4.3. France
- 5.4.4. Italy
- 5.4.5. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 6. United Kingdom Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 6.1.1. Hardware
- 6.1.2. Software
- 6.1.3. Services
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 6.2.2. Computer Forensics
- 6.2.3. Network Forensics
- 6.2.4. Other Types
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 6.3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 6.3.2. BFSI
- 6.3.3. IT and Telecom
- 6.3.4. Other End-user Industries
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 7. Germany Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 7.1.1. Hardware
- 7.1.2. Software
- 7.1.3. Services
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 7.2.2. Computer Forensics
- 7.2.3. Network Forensics
- 7.2.4. Other Types
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 7.3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 7.3.2. BFSI
- 7.3.3. IT and Telecom
- 7.3.4. Other End-user Industries
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 8. France Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 8.1.1. Hardware
- 8.1.2. Software
- 8.1.3. Services
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 8.2.2. Computer Forensics
- 8.2.3. Network Forensics
- 8.2.4. Other Types
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 8.3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 8.3.2. BFSI
- 8.3.3. IT and Telecom
- 8.3.4. Other End-user Industries
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 9. Italy Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 9.1.1. Hardware
- 9.1.2. Software
- 9.1.3. Services
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 9.2.2. Computer Forensics
- 9.2.3. Network Forensics
- 9.2.4. Other Types
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 9.3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 9.3.2. BFSI
- 9.3.3. IT and Telecom
- 9.3.4. Other End-user Industries
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 10. Rest of Europe Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 10.1.1. Hardware
- 10.1.2. Software
- 10.1.3. Services
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10.2.1. Mobile Forensics
- 10.2.2. Computer Forensics
- 10.2.3. Network Forensics
- 10.2.4. Other Types
- 10.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 10.3.1. Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
- 10.3.2. BFSI
- 10.3.3. IT and Telecom
- 10.3.4. Other End-user Industries
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Component
- 11. Germany Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. France Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Italy Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. United Kingdom Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. Netherlands Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Sweden Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Rest of Europe Europe Digital Forensics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Competitive Analysis
- 18.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 18.2. Company Profiles
- 18.2.1 Envista Forensics
- 18.2.1.1. Overview
- 18.2.1.2. Products
- 18.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.2 FireEye Inc
- 18.2.2.1. Overview
- 18.2.2.2. Products
- 18.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.3 Nuix*List Not Exhaustive
- 18.2.3.1. Overview
- 18.2.3.2. Products
- 18.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.4 IBM Corporation
- 18.2.4.1. Overview
- 18.2.4.2. Products
- 18.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.5 MSAB Inc
- 18.2.5.1. Overview
- 18.2.5.2. Products
- 18.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.6 LogRhythm Inc
- 18.2.6.1. Overview
- 18.2.6.2. Products
- 18.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.7 Guidance Software Inc (Opentext)
- 18.2.7.1. Overview
- 18.2.7.2. Products
- 18.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.8 PricewaterhouseCoopers
- 18.2.8.1. Overview
- 18.2.8.2. Products
- 18.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 18.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 18.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 18.2.1 Envista Forensics
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Digital Forensics Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Germany Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: France Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Italy Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: United Kingdom Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Netherlands Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Sweden Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of Europe Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Component 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Digital Forensics Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Digital Forensics Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 10.90%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Digital Forensics Market?
Key companies in the market include Envista Forensics, FireEye Inc, Nuix*List Not Exhaustive, IBM Corporation, MSAB Inc, LogRhythm Inc, Guidance Software Inc (Opentext), PricewaterhouseCoopers.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Digital Forensics Market?
The market segments include Component, Type, End-user Industry.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Growing Adoption of IoT Devices Driving the Demand for Digital Forensic Solutions and Services; Growing Cybercrimes and Security Concerns across Industries.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Growing Adoption of IoT Devices is Driving the Demand for Digital Forensic Solutions and Services.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Consumers Desire for Fine Dining Experience.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
December 2022 - An agreement was reached between the European Commission and the Office of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which improves the court's capacity to handle digital evidence. Investigations into Russia's aggressiveness against Ukraine will also benefit from this. By the agreement, the EU would provide EUR 7.25 million to assist the ICC in more quickly processing new types of evidence.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 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 "Europe Digital Forensics 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 Europe Digital Forensics 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 Europe Digital Forensics Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Digital Forensics 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