Key Insights
The South American medium voltage switchgear market, valued at $1.23 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by expanding industrialization, particularly in Brazil and Argentina. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.69% from 2025 to 2033 signifies a considerable increase in demand for reliable and efficient power distribution solutions. Key drivers include increasing investments in renewable energy infrastructure, modernization of aging grids, and the growing adoption of smart grid technologies. The residential sector, although currently smaller than the commercial and industrial segments, is expected to see significant growth due to rising urbanization and improved living standards. Growth within the industrial segment is fueled by expansion in manufacturing, mining, and oil & gas sectors, especially in Brazil. The market is segmented by installation type (outdoor and indoor), insulation type (air, gas, oil, and other), and application (residential, commercial & industrial, and utility). While challenges remain, such as economic volatility in certain regions and potential supply chain disruptions, the overall market outlook remains positive, driven by long-term infrastructure development plans and a growing need for enhanced power reliability and safety. Major players like ABB, Rockwell Automation, and Siemens are strategically positioned to capitalize on these growth opportunities through innovative product development and expansion into emerging markets within South America. Further analysis suggests that the growth will be more pronounced in the commercial and industrial segments, driven by large scale projects and infrastructure upgrades.
The strong growth trajectory is expected to continue throughout the forecast period (2025-2033), although the rate may fluctuate slightly depending on economic conditions and government policies. The increasing focus on grid modernization, coupled with the rise of smart grid technologies, is anticipated to further accelerate the adoption of advanced medium voltage switchgear solutions. The market's segmentation provides opportunities for specialized players catering to specific needs, such as solutions optimized for harsh environmental conditions or those integrating advanced digital capabilities. Competition is expected to intensify, necessitating strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions to maintain market share. Expansion into underserved regions within South America, coupled with technological innovation, will be crucial for sustained success in this dynamic market.

South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The report covers the period 2019-2033, with a focus on the forecast period 2025-2033 and a base year of 2025. The market is segmented by application (Residential, Commercial & Industrial, Utility), installation (Outdoor, Indoor), and insulation (Air, Gas, Oil, Other Insulations). Key players analyzed include ABB Ltd, Rockwell Automation, Fuji Electric Co Ltd, Toshiba International Corporation, Hitachi Ltd, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Siemens AG, Schneider Electric, HD Hyundai Electric, and Eaton Corporation. The report projects a xx Million market value by 2033, showcasing significant growth opportunities in the region.
South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Dynamics & Concentration
The South America Medium Voltage Switchgear market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with a few dominant players holding significant market share. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as economies of scale, technological capabilities, and established distribution networks. ABB Ltd, Siemens AG, and Schneider Electric are among the key players driving market concentration. The estimated market share of the top 5 players in 2025 is approximately xx%.
- Innovation Drivers: Ongoing advancements in switchgear technology, including the integration of digital technologies, smart grids, and improved safety features, are pushing market growth.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Government regulations promoting renewable energy integration and grid modernization significantly influence market dynamics. Stringent safety standards and environmental regulations also play a crucial role.
- Product Substitutes: While direct substitutes are limited, advancements in alternative power distribution technologies could pose a long-term threat.
- End-User Trends: Growing demand from the utility sector, driven by infrastructure development and expanding electricity grids, is a major growth catalyst. The industrial sector's increasing automation and electrification also drive demand.
- M&A Activities: The market has witnessed a moderate level of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in recent years, with an estimated xx M&A deals concluded between 2019 and 2024. These activities are driven by the need to expand market reach, enhance technological capabilities, and consolidate market share.
South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The South America Medium Voltage Switchgear market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several factors. The region's expanding economy, coupled with increasing urbanization and industrialization, is fueling demand for reliable and efficient power distribution infrastructure. The CAGR for the market during the forecast period (2025-2033) is estimated at xx%. Market penetration of medium voltage switchgear in key segments, like the utility sector, is expected to increase significantly.
Technological disruptions, such as the adoption of digital technologies for improved grid management and predictive maintenance, are further driving market growth. Consumer preferences are shifting towards technologically advanced and energy-efficient solutions, which are influencing product development strategies of leading players. Competitive dynamics are characterized by technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and expansion into new markets.

Leading Markets & Segments in South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market
Brazil holds the dominant position in the South American Medium Voltage Switchgear market, owing to its larger economy and significant investments in infrastructure development. Other key markets include Colombia, Argentina, and Chile.
- Dominant Segment: The utility sector is the largest consumer of medium voltage switchgear, driven by large-scale grid modernization and expansion projects.
- Key Drivers:
- Brazil: Robust government investments in renewable energy projects and expanding transmission infrastructure.
- Colombia: Growing industrial activity and increasing urbanization.
- Argentina: Investments in power grid improvements and infrastructure modernization.
- Chile: Expansion of mining and renewable energy sectors.
The outdoor installation segment dominates the market due to the prevalent outdoor grid infrastructure. Air insulation is the most widely used type, owing to its cost-effectiveness and suitability for various applications.
South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Product Developments
Recent years have witnessed significant product innovation in the medium voltage switchgear market. Companies are focusing on developing compact, robust, and intelligent solutions that incorporate digital technologies for improved grid management and predictive maintenance. The introduction of advanced circuit breakers, improved gas insulation technologies, and enhanced safety features are among the key product developments. These innovations aim to enhance operational efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve overall reliability.
Key Drivers of South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Growth
The growth of the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear market is propelled by several key factors:
- Technological Advancements: Integration of digital technologies, such as smart sensors and communication systems, for improved grid management and predictive maintenance.
- Economic Growth: Expanding economies in several South American countries, driving infrastructure development and industrial expansion.
- Government Initiatives: Government support for renewable energy integration and grid modernization through regulatory frameworks and funding. Examples include Brazil's investments in renewable energy and grid modernization.
Challenges in the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market
The market faces several challenges, including:
- Regulatory Hurdles: Navigating complex regulatory landscapes and obtaining necessary approvals can be time-consuming and costly.
- Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chain disruptions can impact the availability of raw materials and components.
- Competitive Pressure: Intense competition among established players and the emergence of new entrants requires ongoing innovation and strategic adaptation. This leads to price pressures and the need for differentiation.
Emerging Opportunities in South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market
Several emerging opportunities exist for growth in the South American Medium Voltage Switchgear market:
- Smart Grid Technologies: The growing adoption of smart grid technologies presents opportunities for the development and deployment of advanced switchgear solutions.
- Renewable Energy Integration: The increasing integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, necessitates advanced switchgear solutions.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations between switchgear manufacturers and utility companies can facilitate the deployment of advanced grid infrastructure.
Leading Players in the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Sector
- ABB Ltd
- Rockwell Automation
- Fuji Electric Co Ltd
- Toshiba International Corporation
- Hitachi Ltd
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Siemens AG
- Schneider Electric
- HD Hyundai Electric
- Eaton Corporation
Key Milestones in South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Industry
- November 2023: Hitachi Energy secured a significant order from Taesa in Brazil for an HVDC converter station upgrade, showcasing the growing demand for high-capacity transmission solutions.
- May 2022: Schneider Electric launched the SureSeT MV switchgear, highlighting innovation in compact and intelligent switchgear technology.
- March 2022: Ingeteam SA supplied medium voltage switchgear for two large-scale solar projects in Brazil, reflecting the growing renewable energy sector's impact on switchgear demand.
Strategic Outlook for South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market
The South American Medium Voltage Switchgear market presents substantial growth potential driven by ongoing infrastructure development, increasing energy demand, and the growing adoption of renewable energy sources. Strategic opportunities lie in focusing on technological innovation, particularly in smart grid technologies and energy efficiency solutions. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with key stakeholders in the utility and industrial sectors will be crucial for success in this dynamic market.
South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Segmentation
-
1. Application
- 1.1. Residential
- 1.2. Commercial and Industrial
- 1.3. Utility
-
2. Installation
- 2.1. Outdoor
- 2.2. Indoor
-
3. Insulation
- 3.1. Air
- 3.2. Gas
- 3.3. Oil
- 3.4. Other Insulations
-
4. Geograph
- 4.1. Brazil
- 4.2. Argentina
- 4.3. Chile
- 4.4. Rest of South America
South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Brazil
- 2. Argentina
- 3. Chile
- 4. Rest of South America

South America Medium Voltage Switchgear 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 6.69% 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.; Rising Investments in the Electricity Sector
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; High Costs of Operations and Maintenance
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Industrial and Commercial Segments to dominate the market
- 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. South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.1.1. Residential
- 5.1.2. Commercial and Industrial
- 5.1.3. Utility
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Installation
- 5.2.1. Outdoor
- 5.2.2. Indoor
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Insulation
- 5.3.1. Air
- 5.3.2. Gas
- 5.3.3. Oil
- 5.3.4. Other Insulations
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geograph
- 5.4.1. Brazil
- 5.4.2. Argentina
- 5.4.3. Chile
- 5.4.4. Rest of South America
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.5.1. Brazil
- 5.5.2. Argentina
- 5.5.3. Chile
- 5.5.4. Rest of South America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6. Brazil South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.1.1. Residential
- 6.1.2. Commercial and Industrial
- 6.1.3. Utility
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Installation
- 6.2.1. Outdoor
- 6.2.2. Indoor
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Insulation
- 6.3.1. Air
- 6.3.2. Gas
- 6.3.3. Oil
- 6.3.4. Other Insulations
- 6.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geograph
- 6.4.1. Brazil
- 6.4.2. Argentina
- 6.4.3. Chile
- 6.4.4. Rest of South America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7. Argentina South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.1.1. Residential
- 7.1.2. Commercial and Industrial
- 7.1.3. Utility
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Installation
- 7.2.1. Outdoor
- 7.2.2. Indoor
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Insulation
- 7.3.1. Air
- 7.3.2. Gas
- 7.3.3. Oil
- 7.3.4. Other Insulations
- 7.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geograph
- 7.4.1. Brazil
- 7.4.2. Argentina
- 7.4.3. Chile
- 7.4.4. Rest of South America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8. Chile South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.1.1. Residential
- 8.1.2. Commercial and Industrial
- 8.1.3. Utility
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Installation
- 8.2.1. Outdoor
- 8.2.2. Indoor
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Insulation
- 8.3.1. Air
- 8.3.2. Gas
- 8.3.3. Oil
- 8.3.4. Other Insulations
- 8.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geograph
- 8.4.1. Brazil
- 8.4.2. Argentina
- 8.4.3. Chile
- 8.4.4. Rest of South America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9. Rest of South America South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.1.1. Residential
- 9.1.2. Commercial and Industrial
- 9.1.3. Utility
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Installation
- 9.2.1. Outdoor
- 9.2.2. Indoor
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Insulation
- 9.3.1. Air
- 9.3.2. Gas
- 9.3.3. Oil
- 9.3.4. Other Insulations
- 9.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geograph
- 9.4.1. Brazil
- 9.4.2. Argentina
- 9.4.3. Chile
- 9.4.4. Rest of South America
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10. Brazil South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Argentina South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of South America South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 ABB Ltd
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Rockwell automation
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Fuji Electric Co Ltd *List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Toshiba International Corporation
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Hitachi Ltd
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Siemens AG
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Schneider Electric
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 HD Hyundai Electric
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Eaton Corporation
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 ABB Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Installation 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Insulation 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geograph 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Brazil South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Argentina South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Rest of South America South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Installation 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Insulation 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geograph 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Installation 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Insulation 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geograph 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Installation 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Insulation 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geograph 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Installation 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Insulation 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geograph 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 6.69%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market?
Key companies in the market include ABB Ltd, Rockwell automation, Fuji Electric Co Ltd *List Not Exhaustive, Toshiba International Corporation, Hitachi Ltd, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Siemens AG, Schneider Electric, HD Hyundai Electric, Eaton Corporation.
3. What are the main segments of the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market?
The market segments include Application, Installation, Insulation, Geograph.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 1.23 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Rising Investments in the Electricity Sector.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Industrial and Commercial Segments to dominate the market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; High Costs of Operations and Maintenance.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
November 2023: Hitachi Energy announced that it won an order to provide Taesa, one of Brazil’s largest private electric energy transmission groups, with an extensive upgrade of the Garabi high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter station in Brazil. The link can transmit up to 2,200 megawatts of electricity.
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 "South America Medium Voltage Switchgear 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 South America Medium Voltage Switchgear 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 South America Medium Voltage Switchgear Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the South America Medium Voltage Switchgear 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