Key Insights
The RAM market is experiencing robust growth, projected at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 29.90% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the increasing demand for high-performance computing in automotive applications, and the rapid growth of data centers are all significantly contributing to the market's expansion. Furthermore, advancements in semiconductor technology, leading to denser and faster memory chips, are pushing the boundaries of what's possible, opening new applications and further stimulating demand. The embedded segment, encompassing applications like Analog ICs, MCUs, and SoCs, is expected to dominate due to the increasing integration of memory directly into these devices. Standalone RAM, including fast memory for high-performance computing and persistent memory for data storage, is also exhibiting substantial growth, driven by increasing data storage needs in various sectors. Geographic analysis suggests significant growth potential across regions, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific representing substantial market shares, with China exhibiting particularly dynamic growth in line with its expanding technology sector and manufacturing base.
Market restraints primarily relate to the cost of advanced RAM technologies and the inherent challenges in scaling production to meet surging demand. However, continuous innovation and economies of scale are expected to mitigate these challenges over time. Competitive dynamics within the market are intense, with established players like Fujitsu and emerging companies like Weebit-Nano vying for market share. This competition fosters innovation and drives down costs, benefiting end-users across the spectrum. The forecast period (2025-2033) presents a significant opportunity for industry players to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for RAM across diverse applications. Specific segments such as automotive and industrial IoT show particularly strong growth potential, indicating a shift toward more embedded memory solutions. The continued adoption of cloud computing and big data analytics will further augment the demand for high-capacity and high-speed RAM solutions in datacenters and workstations.

RAM Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the RAM market, covering market dynamics, industry trends, leading segments, key players, and future outlook. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base and estimated year. This report is crucial for industry stakeholders seeking actionable insights to navigate the evolving landscape of Random Access Memory. The total market size is predicted to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
RAM Market Market Dynamics & Concentration
The RAM market exhibits a dynamic interplay of concentration, innovation, and regulatory influences. Market concentration is currently [insert level of concentration e.g., moderately concentrated], with the top five players holding an estimated xx% market share in 2024. Significant M&A activity, with approximately xx deals recorded between 2019 and 2024, reflects the industry's consolidation trend. This consolidation is partly driven by the need for economies of scale to compete in the increasingly complex technological landscape.
Key Market Dynamics:
- Innovation Drivers: Continuous advancements in semiconductor technology, particularly in areas like 3D stacking and new memory types (e.g., RRAM, FRAM), are driving market growth.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Government regulations regarding data security and privacy influence RAM adoption, particularly in sectors like automotive and healthcare.
- Product Substitutes: Emerging technologies like phase-change memory (PCM) and spin-transfer torque RAM (STT-RAM) pose potential threats, though their market penetration remains relatively low at present.
- End-User Trends: The increasing demand for high-performance computing, particularly in data centers and the automotive industry, fuels significant growth in the RAM market.
- M&A Activities: Strategic acquisitions and mergers are accelerating market consolidation, enhancing technological capabilities and expanding market reach for major players.
RAM Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The RAM market is witnessing robust growth, driven by several converging factors. The proliferation of data-intensive applications, expanding cloud computing infrastructure, and the rising adoption of IoT devices are primary growth catalysts. The market’s expansion is further fueled by technological advancements, such as the development of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and persistent memory solutions. These innovations are addressing the increasing need for faster data processing and improved storage capacity. Consumer preferences are shifting towards devices with enhanced performance and energy efficiency, pushing manufacturers to innovate and optimize RAM technology. Competitive dynamics are intense, with major players focusing on product differentiation, cost optimization, and strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. The market is expected to experience a CAGR of xx% from 2025 to 2033, with market penetration increasing from xx% in 2025 to xx% by 2033.

Leading Markets & Segments in RAM Market
The dominant segments within the RAM market are experiencing substantial growth. The embedded segment, encompassing Analog ICs, MCUs/SoCs/ASICs/ASSPs, and In-Memory Computing, represents a significant share due to the ubiquitous nature of embedded systems in modern devices. Standalone RAM, including fast/reliable memory, code/data storage, and low-latency storage, is also a leading segment fueled by the expanding data center and high-performance computing markets. The Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive end-user segment is demonstrating strong growth, driven by increasing automation and the Internet of Things (IoT) adoption.
Key Drivers:
- Economic Policies: Government investments in infrastructure projects, especially in developing nations, stimulate demand for advanced RAM solutions.
- Infrastructure Development: Expansion of 5G networks and data centers creates substantial demand for high-performance RAM.
Dominance Analysis: The Asia-Pacific region is projected to dominate the RAM market throughout the forecast period, driven by a large consumer electronics market and significant investments in manufacturing capabilities.
RAM Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations in the RAM market emphasize enhanced performance, lower power consumption, and smaller form factors. This includes the advancement of high-bandwidth memory (HBM), which enables higher data transfer rates compared to traditional DRAM. Moreover, the development of new memory technologies like RRAM and FRAM offers improved performance characteristics, such as non-volatility and faster read/write speeds. These advancements cater to the increasing demands of high-performance computing, data centers, and other data-intensive applications. The competitive advantage is shifting towards companies that successfully integrate these innovations with optimized manufacturing processes to reduce costs and improve yield.
Key Drivers of RAM Market Growth
Several factors contribute to the projected growth of the RAM market. Technological advancements, such as the development of faster and more energy-efficient memory technologies like HBM and emerging non-volatile memories (e.g., RRAM, MRAM), are primary drivers. The increasing demand for high-performance computing and data storage in various sectors, including cloud computing, automotive, and IoT, further fuels market expansion. Government policies aimed at promoting digital transformation and investments in infrastructure projects create additional momentum.
Challenges in the RAM Market Market
The RAM market faces several challenges, including fluctuations in raw material costs, which impact profitability. Supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical factors can lead to production delays and shortages. Intense competition among major players requires continuous innovation and aggressive pricing strategies to maintain market share. Additionally, increasing regulatory scrutiny concerning data security and environmental standards adds further complexity. These challenges represent approximately xx% of the total market risk.
Emerging Opportunities in RAM Market
The RAM market presents significant long-term growth opportunities. Continued technological breakthroughs, such as the miniaturization of memory chips and the emergence of novel memory technologies, present avenues for market expansion. Strategic partnerships among semiconductor companies, software developers, and system integrators are driving innovation and creating new applications for RAM technology. Market expansion into emerging economies and the growing adoption of cloud computing, big data, and AI further unlock potential for growth.
Leading Players in the RAM Market Sector
- Dialog Semiconductor PLC
- 4DS Memory Limited
- Crossbar Inc
- Xinyuan Semiconductor (Shanghai) Co Ltd
- Fujitsu Semiconductor Memory Solution Limited
- Weebit-Nano Ltd
Key Milestones in RAM Market Industry
- February 2022: Intrinsic Semiconductor Technologies successfully scaled its silicon oxide-based RRAM devices to 50 nm, demonstrating potential for high-performance, low-cost embedded non-volatile memory.
- January 2022: Fujitsu Semiconductor Memory Solution Limited launched the 8Mbit FRAM MB85RQ8MLX, the highest-density SPI connection FRAM in its product line.
Strategic Outlook for RAM Market Market
The RAM market is poised for continued growth, driven by ongoing technological innovation and increasing demand from diverse sectors. Strategic opportunities lie in developing advanced memory technologies, optimizing manufacturing processes to reduce costs, and forging strategic partnerships to expand market reach. Companies that can effectively address the challenges associated with supply chain stability and regulatory compliance will be best positioned for long-term success. The long-term outlook indicates robust growth potential, supported by sustained demand for faster, more efficient, and higher-capacity RAM solutions across various applications.
RAM Market Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Embedded
- 1.2. Standalo
-
2. End-user
- 2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
RAM Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Americas
- 2. Europe
- 3. China
- 4. Japan
- 5. Asia Pacific

RAM 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 29.90% 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 Increasing Demand for IoT
- 3.2.2 Cloud Computing
- 3.2.3 and Big Data; Surging Demand for Application of Automation Robots
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Complexity in Technological Applications
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Increasing Demand of Connected Devices Under Consumer Electronics Segment is Fueling the Demand for ReRAM
- 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 RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Embedded
- 5.1.2. Standalo
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user
- 5.2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 5.2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Americas
- 5.3.2. Europe
- 5.3.3. China
- 5.3.4. Japan
- 5.3.5. Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. Americas RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Embedded
- 6.1.2. Standalo
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user
- 6.2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 6.2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. Europe RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Embedded
- 7.1.2. Standalo
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user
- 7.2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 7.2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. China RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Embedded
- 8.1.2. Standalo
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user
- 8.2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 8.2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Japan RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Embedded
- 9.1.2. Standalo
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user
- 9.2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 9.2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Asia Pacific RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.1.1. Embedded
- 10.1.2. Standalo
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user
- 10.2.1. Industrial/IoT/Wearables/Automotive
- 10.2.2. SSD/Datacenters/Workstations
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11. Americas RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Europe RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1.
- 13. China RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1.
- 14. Japan RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 14.1.1.
- 15. Asia Pacific RAM Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 15.1.1.
- 16. Competitive Analysis
- 16.1. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 16.2. Company Profiles
- 16.2.1 Dialog Semiconductor PLC
- 16.2.1.1. Overview
- 16.2.1.2. Products
- 16.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.2 4DS Memory Limited
- 16.2.2.1. Overview
- 16.2.2.2. Products
- 16.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.3 Crossbar Inc
- 16.2.3.1. Overview
- 16.2.3.2. Products
- 16.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.4 Xinyuan Semiconductor (Shanghai) Co Ltd
- 16.2.4.1. Overview
- 16.2.4.2. Products
- 16.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.5 Fujitsu Semiconductor Memory Solution Limited
- 16.2.5.1. Overview
- 16.2.5.2. Products
- 16.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.6 Weebit-Nano Ltd
- 16.2.6.1. Overview
- 16.2.6.2. Products
- 16.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 16.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 16.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 16.2.1 Dialog Semiconductor PLC
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global RAM Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Americas RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: Americas RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: China RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: China RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Japan RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Japan RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: Americas RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: Americas RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Americas RAM Market Revenue (Million), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Americas RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Americas RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Americas RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Europe RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Europe RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Europe RAM Market Revenue (Million), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Europe RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Europe RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Europe RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: China RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: China RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 26: China RAM Market Revenue (Million), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 27: China RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 28: China RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 29: China RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 30: Japan RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 31: Japan RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 32: Japan RAM Market Revenue (Million), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 33: Japan RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 34: Japan RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 35: Japan RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 36: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 37: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Application 2024 & 2032
- Figure 38: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue (Million), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 39: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by End-user 2024 & 2032
- Figure 40: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 41: Asia Pacific RAM Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: RAM Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: RAM Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: RAM Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: RAM Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: RAM Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Global RAM Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the RAM Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 29.90%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the RAM Market?
Key companies in the market include Dialog Semiconductor PLC, 4DS Memory Limited, Crossbar Inc, Xinyuan Semiconductor (Shanghai) Co Ltd , Fujitsu Semiconductor Memory Solution Limited, Weebit-Nano Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the RAM Market?
The market segments include Application, End-user.
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?
Increasing Demand for IoT. Cloud Computing. and Big Data; Surging Demand for Application of Automation Robots.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Increasing Demand of Connected Devices Under Consumer Electronics Segment is Fueling the Demand for ReRAM.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Complexity in Technological Applications.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
February 2022: Intrinsic Semiconductor Technologies stated that it had successfully scaled its silicon oxide-based resistive random access memory devices (RRAM). They demonstrated electrical performance characteristics, which may enable their use as high-performance, low-cost, embedded, non-volatile memory in logic devices at advanced processing nodes. The company's RRAM devices have been scaled to dimensions of 50 nm. The company said the devices had demonstrated excellent switching behavior, which is key to their use as the next generation of non-volatile, solid-state memory.
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 "RAM 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 RAM 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 RAM Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the RAM 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