Key Insights
The US data center market, currently experiencing robust growth, is projected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. The increasing adoption of cloud computing, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence necessitates substantial data storage and processing capabilities, fueling demand for data center infrastructure. Furthermore, the rise of 5G networks and the Internet of Things (IoT) will further amplify data volumes, driving the need for more sophisticated and geographically diverse data center facilities. Significant investments in edge computing infrastructure are also contributing to market growth, as businesses strive to reduce latency and improve application performance. Market segmentation reveals strong growth across various data center sizes, with large and mega data centers leading the expansion due to their capacity to house massive computing power and accommodate the needs of hyperscale cloud providers. Tier 1 and Tier 3 facilities are experiencing heightened demand due to their superior reliability and redundancy features. Geographically, key hotspots like Northern California, Northern Virginia, and the Northeast region are attracting significant investments, benefiting from established ecosystems and strong digital infrastructure. However, challenges such as rising energy costs, land scarcity in prime locations, and competition for skilled labor could potentially constrain growth in certain areas.
The market's competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging companies. Leading players, including Equinix, Digital Realty, and CyrusOne, are strategically expanding their footprints through mergers, acquisitions, and greenfield developments, solidifying their market positions. Smaller and specialized providers are focusing on niche markets, such as edge computing and hyperscale data centers, to carve out a space within the larger competitive landscape. The industry is constantly evolving, with a growing focus on sustainable practices, including increased energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energy sources. This trend is driven by increasing environmental concerns and regulatory pressure, creating opportunities for companies that can demonstrate strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. Overall, the outlook for the US data center market remains positive, with continued growth expected across various segments and geographical locations.

US Data Center Industry Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the US data center industry, offering valuable insights for investors, industry professionals, and strategic decision-makers. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report offers a complete picture of market trends, competitive dynamics, and future growth potential. The report includes detailed segmentation by region (Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New Jersey, New York, Northern California, Northern Virginia, Northwest, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Rest of the United States), data center size (Small, Medium, Mega, Large, Massive), tier type (Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3), and absorption (Utilized, Non-Utilized), along with analysis of key players like Equinix Inc, Digital Realty Trust Inc, and Switch. The report projects a xx Million market value by 2033, highlighting significant opportunities for growth.
US Data Center Industry Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The US data center market is characterized by a mix of large, established players and smaller, niche providers. Market concentration is moderate, with a few dominant players holding significant market share, but a competitive landscape fostering innovation. Equinix Inc and Digital Realty Trust Inc, for example, command substantial market shares, but a number of regional and specialized players contribute to a dynamic market. Innovation thrives due to the continuous evolution of cloud computing, edge computing, and 5G technologies.
Regulatory frameworks, including those concerning data privacy (e.g., CCPA, GDPR), energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability, exert influence on market operations. Product substitutes, such as cloud-based services, challenge traditional colocation offerings. End-user trends towards hybrid cloud strategies and increased data security requirements are shaping the demand. The industry witnesses significant M&A activity, with recent deals showcasing the trend. The acquisition of Switch, Inc. for approximately USD 11 Billion in December 2022 by DigitalBridge and IFM Investors exemplifies this trend. This consolidation shapes the competitive landscape and impacts market share dynamics. Other significant M&A transactions have influenced market concentration, impacting both the competitive landscape and the overall market value. Further analysis will examine deal values across various deal sizes, identifying leading investors and their strategic focus in market consolidation.
- Market Share: Equinix Inc (xx%), Digital Realty Trust Inc (xx%), Switch (xx%), Others (xx%)
- M&A Deal Values (2019-2024): Totaling approximately xx Billion USD
US Data Center Industry Industry Trends & Insights
The US data center industry is experiencing robust growth driven by several key factors. The proliferation of big data analytics, the rapid expansion of cloud computing services, the adoption of IoT devices, and the increasing demand for edge computing are all significant growth drivers. Furthermore, the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and the metaverse require substantial data center capacity, fueling market expansion. The industry’s Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) during the historical period (2019-2024) is estimated at xx%, projected to reach xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Market penetration of cloud services continues to rise, impacting the demand for colocation and wholesale data center services. This growth is further driven by shifts in consumer preferences towards readily available, scalable, and secure data solutions. Competitive dynamics are intensifying as established players are engaged in aggressive expansion strategies, while new entrants are emerging, driving innovation and price competition.

Dominant Markets & Segments in US Data Center Industry
The US data center market is geographically diverse, with several hotspots experiencing significant growth. Northern Virginia, Northern California, and Dallas consistently rank among the top markets, driven by factors such as established infrastructure, favorable regulatory environments, and proximity to major technology hubs.
Key Drivers:
- Abundant Fiber Optic Infrastructure: Ensuring low latency and high bandwidth connectivity.
- Access to Renewable Energy: Supporting sustainability initiatives and cost efficiency.
- Pro-Business Regulatory Environment: Facilitating investment and development.
- Skilled Workforce: Providing a talent pool for data center operations.
Dominance Analysis: Northern Virginia's dominance is attributed to the concentration of major hyperscale cloud providers and government agencies. Northern California benefits from the presence of Silicon Valley and other tech companies. Dallas's central location and robust network connectivity make it an attractive data center hub. Other markets like Atlanta, Chicago, and New Jersey also show strong growth potential.
The Large and Mega data center size segments dominate the market, reflecting the demand from hyperscale cloud providers and enterprise clients needing substantial capacity. Tier 1 and Tier 3 facilities are prevalent, reflecting the focus on reliability and redundancy. Utilized capacity consistently outpaces Non-Utilized, indicating strong demand. The Other End User segment is growing rapidly, reflecting the increasing data center adoption across various industries.
US Data Center Industry Product Innovations
Recent innovations include advancements in liquid cooling technologies, the utilization of AI/ML for data center management and optimization, and the increasing adoption of edge computing infrastructure. These advancements improve efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance performance, creating competitive advantages. The market is increasingly focused on sustainable and environmentally responsible solutions, incorporating renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the US data center market, segmented by:
- Geographic Location: Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New Jersey, New York, Northern California, Northern Virginia, Northwest, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Rest of the United States
- Data Center Size: Small, Medium, Mega, Large, Massive
- Tier Type: Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3
- Absorption: Utilized, Non-Utilized
- Other End User: This segment includes a diverse range of industries beyond hyperscale providers, including government, finance, healthcare, and education.
Each segment's growth projections, market size estimations, and competitive dynamics are analyzed thoroughly within the report.
Key Drivers of US Data Center Industry Growth
Several factors drive the US data center industry's growth. The increasing adoption of cloud computing and big data analytics significantly fuels the need for data center capacity. Government initiatives promoting digital transformation and advancements in 5G infrastructure further bolster the industry's growth. The expansion of IoT and AI applications requires robust data storage and processing capabilities, enhancing demand.
Challenges in the US Data Center Industry Sector
The US data center industry faces several challenges. Regulatory compliance, particularly concerning data privacy and environmental regulations, can increase operational costs. Supply chain disruptions and constraints on crucial components can affect the timely deployment of data centers. Intense competition among established and new players can put pressure on pricing and profitability. Finally, ensuring a sufficient skilled workforce to manage and maintain sophisticated data center infrastructure poses a persistent challenge.
Leading Players in the US Data Center Industry Market
- Databank Holdings Ltd
- Flexential Corp
- Quality Technology Services
- Equinix Inc
- Vantage Data Centers LLC
- Cyxtera Technologies
- Switch
- CoreSite (America Tower Corporation)
- Digital Realty Trust Inc
- CyrusOne Inc
- H5 Data Centers LLC
- NTT Ltd
Key Developments in US Data Center Industry Sector
- February 2023: H5 Data Centers announced the expansion of Southern Telecom's data center in Atlanta, Georgia, enhancing service for customers in the Southeast.
- December 2022: DigitalBridge Group, Inc. and IFM Investors acquired Switch, Inc., for approximately USD 11 Billion, signifying a major industry consolidation.
- October 2022: Flexential expanded its cloud services to three new data centers in Charlotte, Nashville, and Louisville, increasing its hybrid IT capacity.
Strategic US Data Center Industry Market Outlook
The US data center industry is poised for continued growth, driven by technological advancements and increasing digital transformation across various sectors. Strategic opportunities exist for players focusing on sustainable solutions, edge computing deployments, and specialized services catering to specific industry needs. The market's expansion presents opportunities for innovation, consolidation, and the development of efficient and resilient data center infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of the digital economy.
US Data Center Industry Segmentation
-
1. Data Center Size
- 1.1. Large
- 1.2. Massive
- 1.3. Medium
- 1.4. Mega
- 1.5. Small
-
2. Tier Type
- 2.1. Tier 1 and 2
- 2.2. Tier 3
- 2.3. Tier 4
-
3. Absorption
- 3.1. Non-Utilized
-
4. Colocation Type
- 4.1. Hyperscale
- 4.2. Retail
- 4.3. Wholesale
-
5. End User
- 5.1. BFSI
- 5.2. Cloud
- 5.3. E-Commerce
- 5.4. Government
- 5.5. Manufacturing
- 5.6. Media & Entertainment
- 5.7. Telecom
- 5.8. Other End User
US Data Center Industry Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
- 1.3. Mexico

US Data Center Industry 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 6.00% 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 ; High Mobile penetration
- 3.2.2 Low Tariff
- 3.2.3 and Mature Regulatory Authority; Successful Privatization and Liberalization Initiatives
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. ; Difficulties in Customization According to Business Needs
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- 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. US Data Center Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Data Center Size
- 5.1.1. Large
- 5.1.2. Massive
- 5.1.3. Medium
- 5.1.4. Mega
- 5.1.5. Small
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Tier Type
- 5.2.1. Tier 1 and 2
- 5.2.2. Tier 3
- 5.2.3. Tier 4
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Absorption
- 5.3.1. Non-Utilized
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Colocation Type
- 5.4.1. Hyperscale
- 5.4.2. Retail
- 5.4.3. Wholesale
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End User
- 5.5.1. BFSI
- 5.5.2. Cloud
- 5.5.3. E-Commerce
- 5.5.4. Government
- 5.5.5. Manufacturing
- 5.5.6. Media & Entertainment
- 5.5.7. Telecom
- 5.5.8. Other End User
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.6.1. North America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Data Center Size
- 6. Northeast US Data Center Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Southeast US Data Center Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Midwest US Data Center Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. Southwest US Data Center Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. West US Data Center Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Databank Holdings Ltd
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Flexential Corp
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Quality Technology Services
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 Equinix Inc
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 Vantage Data Centers LLC5
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 Cyxtera Technologies
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Switch
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 CoreSite (America Tower Corporation)
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Digital Realty Trust Inc
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 CyrusOne Inc
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.11 H5 Data Centers LLC
- 11.2.11.1. Overview
- 11.2.11.2. Products
- 11.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.12 NTT Ltd
- 11.2.12.1. Overview
- 11.2.12.2. Products
- 11.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Databank Holdings Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: US Data Center Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: US Data Center Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Data Center Size 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Data Center Size 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Absorption 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Absorption 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Colocation Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Colocation Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Northeast US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Northeast US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Southeast US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Southeast US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Midwest US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Midwest US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Southwest US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Southwest US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: West US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: West US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Data Center Size 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Data Center Size 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Tier Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Absorption 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Absorption 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Colocation Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Colocation Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by End User 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: US Data Center Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: US Data Center Industry Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: United States US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: United States US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Canada US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Canada US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Mexico US Data Center Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Mexico US Data Center Industry Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the US Data Center Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 6.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the US Data Center Industry?
Key companies in the market include Databank Holdings Ltd, Flexential Corp, Quality Technology Services, Equinix Inc, Vantage Data Centers LLC5 , Cyxtera Technologies, Switch, CoreSite (America Tower Corporation), Digital Realty Trust Inc, CyrusOne Inc, H5 Data Centers LLC, NTT Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the US Data Center Industry?
The market segments include Data Center Size, Tier Type, Absorption, Colocation Type, 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?
; High Mobile penetration. Low Tariff. and Mature Regulatory Authority; Successful Privatization and Liberalization Initiatives.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Difficulties in Customization According to Business Needs.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
February 2023: The expansion of Souther Telecom to its data center in Atlanta, Georgia, at 345 Courtland Street, was announced by H5 Data Centers, a colocation and wholesale data center operator. One of the top communication service providers in the southeast is Southern Telecom. Customers in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi will receive better service due to the expansion of this low-latency fiber optic network.December 2022: DigitalBridge Group, Inc. and IFM Investors announced completing their previously announced transaction in which funds affiliated with the investment management platform of DigitalBridge and an affiliate of IFM Investors acquired all outstanding common shares of Switch, Inc. for USD approximately USD 11 billion, including the repayment of outstanding debt.October 2022: Three additional data centers in Charlotte, Nashville, and Louisville have been made available to Flexential's cloud customers, according to the supplier of data center colocation, cloud computing, and connectivity. By the end of the year, clients will have access to more than 220MW of hybrid IT capacity spread across 40 data centers in 19 markets, which is well aligned with Flexential's 2022 ambition to add 33MW of new, sustainable data center development projects.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 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 and volume, measured in K Unit.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "US Data Center Industry," 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 US Data Center Industry 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 US Data Center Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the US Data Center Industry, 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