Key Insights
The Global 3D Virtual Platform Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing adoption of immersive technologies across diverse sectors. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.50% from 2019 to 2024 indicates significant expansion, projected to continue throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). Key drivers include the rising demand for remote collaboration tools, the need for enhanced training and education simulations, and the expanding applications of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) in entertainment, healthcare, and manufacturing. The market is segmented by end-user, with manufacturing, transport & logistics, and healthcare representing substantial segments. The emergence of sophisticated software development kits (SDKs) like those offered by Holo-SDK, Praxilabs, and others, is further fueling market growth by lowering the barrier to entry for developers and businesses looking to create immersive experiences. Competitive activity is strong, with numerous companies vying for market share through innovation in platform features, accessibility, and integration capabilities. While data limitations prevent precise market sizing, extrapolating from the provided CAGR and considering the significant technological advancements and increasing industry investment, a reasonable estimation for the 2025 market size could be placed in the range of $5-7 billion, depending on specific market segments considered. Future market growth will depend on factors such as technological advancements in VR/AR hardware and software, the increasing affordability of these technologies, and the successful integration of these platforms into existing business workflows.
Geographic growth is expected to be widespread. North America and Europe currently hold significant market shares due to established technological infrastructure and early adoption. However, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for rapid growth, driven by increasing digitalization and a burgeoning middle class. This regional disparity presents significant opportunities for expansion and strategic partnerships for companies operating in this market. Potential restraints include the high initial investment costs associated with adopting 3D virtual platforms, the need for robust internet infrastructure, and concerns regarding data security and privacy. Nevertheless, ongoing technological improvements and cost reductions are likely to mitigate these challenges, ensuring continued market expansion in the coming years.
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Global 3D Virtual Platform Market, offering valuable insights for businesses, investors, and industry professionals. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 serving as the base and estimated year. The forecast period covers 2025-2033, and the historical period encompasses 2019-2024. The report meticulously examines market structure, competitive dynamics, industry trends, dominant segments, and key players, providing a holistic understanding of this rapidly evolving market. Expected market value in 2025 is predicted to be xx Million.

Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The global 3D virtual platform market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with a handful of major players holding significant market share. However, the market is also characterized by a dynamic innovation ecosystem, with numerous startups and smaller companies contributing to technological advancements and expanding application possibilities. Regulatory frameworks vary across regions, influencing market entry and operations. Product substitutes, such as traditional 2D design software, still exist, but the increasing capabilities and accessibility of 3D virtual platforms are steadily eroding their market share. End-user trends reveal a growing preference for immersive and interactive experiences, driving demand for advanced features and functionalities. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities have played a role in shaping the market landscape, with deal values ranging from xx Million to xx Million in recent years. Key metrics such as market share and M&A deal values provide a clear depiction of the current dynamics. For example, Company A holds an estimated xx% market share, while recent M&A activity has resulted in a consolidation of the market in specific niches. The rising adoption of virtual collaboration tools and the need for efficient remote work solutions are accelerating the market growth.
Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Industry Trends & Insights
The global 3D virtual platform market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. Technological disruptions, such as advancements in VR/AR technologies and cloud computing, are enhancing the capabilities and accessibility of 3D virtual platforms. The rising demand for immersive and interactive user experiences across various industries is a major driver. The increasing adoption of virtual and augmented reality technologies across a broad spectrum of applications is driving market growth. Consumer preferences are shifting towards personalized and engaging digital experiences. This trend fuels demand for sophisticated 3D virtual platform features, such as customizable avatars, interactive environments, and seamless cross-platform compatibility. Competitive dynamics are intense, with companies focusing on innovation, strategic partnerships, and aggressive marketing to gain market share. The market exhibits a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately xx% during the forecast period, with a market penetration rate projected to reach xx% by 2033. Further, the growing adoption of 3D modeling and simulation technologies across industries is boosting market expansion.

Dominant Markets & Segments in Global 3D Virtual Platform Market
While the market is expanding globally, the [Region/Country - e.g., North America] currently holds the dominant position in the global 3D virtual platform market. This dominance can be attributed to several factors:
- Advanced Technological Infrastructure: Robust infrastructure, including high-speed internet connectivity and widespread adoption of advanced technologies, provides a strong foundation for 3D virtual platform adoption.
- Strong Economic Conditions: A thriving economy enables higher investment in technological solutions and fosters a more receptive market for innovative products and services.
- Favorable Regulatory Environment: Supportive regulatory frameworks that encourage technological advancements and adoption facilitate market growth.
- High Adoption Rates in Key Sectors: Significant adoption across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and education, contributes significantly to market dominance.
The manufacturing sector currently dominates the end-user segment, owing to its extensive use of 3D virtual platforms for product design, prototyping, and training. However, the healthcare and education sectors are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, fueled by increasing demand for remote consultations, interactive learning experiences, and virtual training programs.
Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Product Innovations
Recent product developments highlight a strong focus on enhancing user experience, scalability, and platform integration. New platforms are increasingly incorporating advanced features like AI-powered tools for content creation, improved collaboration features, and seamless integration with other enterprise software solutions. These advancements are expanding the market's applications and boosting adoption across diverse sectors. The overall trend favors user-friendly interfaces and intuitive tools that require minimal technical expertise, making 3D virtual platforms more accessible to a wider user base. The focus on real-time collaboration, high-fidelity graphics, and cross-platform compatibility is driving competitiveness.
Report Segmentation & Scope
The report segments the global 3D virtual platform market based on end-user:
- Manufacturing: This segment is characterized by high adoption rates due to the use of 3D virtual platforms for design, prototyping, and training. Growth is projected at xx% CAGR. The competitive landscape is highly fragmented.
- Transport & Logistics: Adoption is increasing, driven by the need for efficient simulations and training in the sector. Growth is projected at xx% CAGR. Key players are focusing on specialized solutions.
- Healthcare: This segment is experiencing significant growth due to the rising adoption of remote consultations and virtual training. Growth is projected at xx% CAGR. The market is witnessing several technological innovations.
- Education: The use of 3D virtual platforms for interactive learning is gaining traction, resulting in substantial growth potential. Growth is projected at xx% CAGR. Several startups are entering the market.
- Others: This segment encompasses various applications across other industries, offering significant growth prospects. Growth is projected at xx% CAGR. The diversity of applications makes it a competitive segment.
Key Drivers of Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Growth
Several factors are propelling the growth of the 3D virtual platform market. Advancements in VR/AR technology, coupled with improvements in processing power and affordability, have made the technology more accessible. The rising demand for immersive and interactive digital experiences across all sectors, including the growth of the Metaverse, is driving market expansion. Government initiatives and investments in digital infrastructure further support adoption. Finally, the increasing need for remote collaboration and training has accelerated market growth.
Challenges in the Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Sector
Despite the positive growth outlook, the market faces certain challenges. High initial investment costs for hardware and software can hinder adoption in resource-constrained environments. The need for robust internet connectivity and high-performance computing can also pose limitations. The complexity of creating and maintaining 3D virtual environments requires skilled professionals, creating a skills gap. Competition among established players and emerging startups further intensifies the challenge for smaller companies.
Leading Players in the Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Market
- Holo-SDK
- Praxilabs
- Samaaro
- Aviantet
- Spektra Systems LLC (Cloudlabs AI)
- Outreal XR
- Worldviz Inc
- 3D Bear
- PandaMR
- Wevr
- MootUp (Hyperspace??)
Key Developments in Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Sector
- May 2022: Camp K12 launched Hatch Kids, a free online 3D creation platform for children aged 6-18, impacting the education segment and fostering early adoption.
- September 2021: Rooom, a German startup, raised USD 7 Million to integrate 3D virtual experiences into its events platform, demonstrating the market's appeal to event organizers.
Strategic Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Market Outlook
The future of the 3D virtual platform market appears bright, with significant growth potential across diverse sectors. Continued technological advancements, increasing affordability, and rising demand for immersive experiences will drive market expansion. Strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions will further shape the competitive landscape. Companies that focus on innovation, user experience, and seamless integration will be well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in this dynamic market. The convergence of AR/VR with other technologies, such as AI and the Metaverse, presents compelling opportunities.
Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Segmentation
-
1. End User
- 1.1. Manufacturing
- 1.2. Transport & Logistics
- 1.3. Healthcare
- 1.4. Education
- 1.5. Others
Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. North America
- 2. Europe
- 3. Asia Pacific
- 4. Rest of the World

Global 3D Virtual Platform 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 13.50% 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 adoption of digital media platform to expand audience base.; Growing usage of virtual reality in instructive training
- 3.2.2 such as for training mechanics
- 3.2.3 engineers
- 3.2.4 pilots
- 3.2.5 soldiers in defense
- 3.2.6 field workers
- 3.2.7 and technicians
- 3.2.8 and manufacturing sectors is driving the market growth
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Lack of Awareness of Smart Glass Benefits; Technical Issues with the Usage of Large Size Smart Glass
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Healthcare Industry to Drive Market Growth
- 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 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.1.1. Manufacturing
- 5.1.2. Transport & Logistics
- 5.1.3. Healthcare
- 5.1.4. Education
- 5.1.5. Others
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.2.1. North America
- 5.2.2. Europe
- 5.2.3. Asia Pacific
- 5.2.4. Rest of the World
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 6. North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 6.1.1. Manufacturing
- 6.1.2. Transport & Logistics
- 6.1.3. Healthcare
- 6.1.4. Education
- 6.1.5. Others
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 7. Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 7.1.1. Manufacturing
- 7.1.2. Transport & Logistics
- 7.1.3. Healthcare
- 7.1.4. Education
- 7.1.5. Others
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 8. Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 8.1.1. Manufacturing
- 8.1.2. Transport & Logistics
- 8.1.3. Healthcare
- 8.1.4. Education
- 8.1.5. Others
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 9. Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 9.1.1. Manufacturing
- 9.1.2. Transport & Logistics
- 9.1.3. Healthcare
- 9.1.4. Education
- 9.1.5. Others
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 10. North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1.
- 11. Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1.
- 12. Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1.
- 13. Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 13.1.1.
- 14. Competitive Analysis
- 14.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 14.2. Company Profiles
- 14.2.1 Holo-SDK
- 14.2.1.1. Overview
- 14.2.1.2. Products
- 14.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.2 Praxilabs
- 14.2.2.1. Overview
- 14.2.2.2. Products
- 14.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.3 Samaaro
- 14.2.3.1. Overview
- 14.2.3.2. Products
- 14.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.4 Aviantet*List Not Exhaustive
- 14.2.4.1. Overview
- 14.2.4.2. Products
- 14.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.5 Spektra Systems LLC (Cloudlabs AI)
- 14.2.5.1. Overview
- 14.2.5.2. Products
- 14.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.6 Outreal XR
- 14.2.6.1. Overview
- 14.2.6.2. Products
- 14.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.7 Worldviz Inc
- 14.2.7.1. Overview
- 14.2.7.2. Products
- 14.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.8 3D Bear
- 14.2.8.1. Overview
- 14.2.8.2. Products
- 14.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.9 PandaMR
- 14.2.9.1. Overview
- 14.2.9.2. Products
- 14.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.10 Wevr
- 14.2.10.1. Overview
- 14.2.10.2. Products
- 14.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.11 MootUp(Hyperspace??)
- 14.2.11.1. Overview
- 14.2.11.2. Products
- 14.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 14.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 14.2.1 Holo-SDK
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: North America Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by End User 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Rest of the World Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Global 3D Virtual Platform Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Global 3D Virtual Platform Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 13.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Global 3D Virtual Platform Market?
Key companies in the market include Holo-SDK, Praxilabs, Samaaro, Aviantet*List Not Exhaustive, Spektra Systems LLC (Cloudlabs AI), Outreal XR, Worldviz Inc, 3D Bear, PandaMR, Wevr, MootUp(Hyperspace??).
3. What are the main segments of the Global 3D Virtual Platform Market?
The market segments include 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 adoption of digital media platform to expand audience base.; Growing usage of virtual reality in instructive training. such as for training mechanics. engineers. pilots. soldiers in defense. field workers. and technicians. and manufacturing sectors is driving the market growth.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Healthcare Industry to Drive Market Growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Lack of Awareness of Smart Glass Benefits; Technical Issues with the Usage of Large Size Smart Glass.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
In May 2022, Camp K12, an edtech startup, launched Hatch Kids, a metaverse and AR/VR creation platform for young learners. It is a free online 3D creation platform for kids 6 - 18 years of age to code, design, and publish 3D games, Augmented Reality (AR) apps, interactive Virtual Reality (VR) worlds, and metaverse experiences without any prior experience in design or coding.
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 "Global 3D Virtual Platform 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 Global 3D Virtual Platform 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 Global 3D Virtual Platform Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Global 3D Virtual Platform 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