Key Insights
The European molecular biosensors market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, rising demand for point-of-care diagnostics, and advancements in biosensor technology. The market, valued at approximately €2.5 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.90% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of €4.2 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, technological advancements in electrochemical, optical, and thermal biosensors are leading to smaller, more sensitive, and cost-effective devices, broadening their applications across various sectors. Secondly, the increasing adoption of personalized medicine and the growing need for rapid diagnostic tools in healthcare settings are significant market drivers. Furthermore, stringent environmental regulations and the demand for food safety are spurring the adoption of molecular biosensors in environmental monitoring and food and beverage industries. Germany, France, and the UK represent major market segments within Europe, reflecting their advanced healthcare infrastructure and robust research & development capabilities. However, the market's growth is likely to be tempered somewhat by regulatory hurdles associated with new technologies and the relatively high cost of some advanced biosensor systems.
Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook remains positive. The integration of molecular biosensors into wearable health monitoring devices and the ongoing research into novel biosensing materials and techniques promise to unlock new market opportunities. The medical diagnostics segment currently holds a significant share of the market and is expected to remain a key driver for growth, followed by the food and beverage sector. Companies like Medtronic, Roche, and Danaher are at the forefront of innovation, constantly developing new and improved biosensing technologies. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established players and innovative startups, leading to continuous product improvement and market expansion within the European molecular biosensors market.
Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Market Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Europe molecular biosensors industry, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, 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 delivers actionable intelligence on market size, growth drivers, challenges, and future opportunities. The report leverages detailed segmentation by technology (Electrochemical, Optical, Thermal, Other) and application (Medical Diagnostics, Food & Beverages, Environment Safety, Defense & Security, Other) to provide a granular understanding of this dynamic market.

Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Market Structure & Innovation Trends
The European molecular biosensors market is characterized by a moderately concentrated landscape, with key players such as Medtronic PLC, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Danaher (Cytiva), and Siemens Healthcare holding significant market share. However, the presence of numerous smaller companies and startups signifies a dynamic competitive environment. Innovation is driven by advancements in nanotechnology, microfluidics, and advanced materials, leading to more sensitive, portable, and cost-effective biosensors. Regulatory frameworks, such as those from the European Medicines Agency (EMA), play a crucial role in shaping product development and market entry. Product substitutes, such as traditional diagnostic methods, present ongoing competitive pressure, demanding continuous innovation. End-user demographics are predominantly influenced by the healthcare sector, with growing demand from point-of-care diagnostics and personalized medicine. M&A activity, illustrated by acquisitions like SD Biosensor's purchase of Bestbion for USD 13.2 Million in March 2022, reflects industry consolidation and expansion strategies.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with a few major players dominating. Market share data is being analysed for a definitive response.
- Innovation Drivers: Nanotechnology, microfluidics, advanced materials, personalized medicine.
- Regulatory Framework: EMA guidelines influence product development and market access.
- M&A Activity: USD xx Million in deal value observed during 2019-2024.

Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Market Dynamics & Trends
The European molecular biosensors market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases fuels demand for rapid and accurate diagnostic tools. Technological advancements, particularly in miniaturization and wireless connectivity, are enhancing the accessibility and usability of biosensors. Consumer preference for convenient and personalized healthcare solutions further boosts market adoption. Competitive dynamics are marked by innovation-led competition, with companies investing heavily in R&D to develop superior products. The market is expected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period, driven primarily by the expansion of the medical diagnostics segment and increasing government investments in healthcare infrastructure. Market penetration is expected to reach xx% by 2033.

Dominant Regions & Segments in Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry
The German and UK markets currently lead the European molecular biosensors industry, driven by robust healthcare infrastructure, strong R&D investments, and a high prevalence of chronic diseases. Within technology segments, electrochemical biosensors hold the largest market share due to their maturity and cost-effectiveness. The medical diagnostics application segment dominates, reflecting the significant demand for rapid and accurate diagnostic tools.
- Leading Region: Germany and UK
- Key Drivers (Germany & UK): Strong healthcare infrastructure, high R&D investment, favorable regulatory environment.
- Dominant Technology Segment: Electrochemical biosensors (owing to maturity and cost effectiveness)
- Dominant Application Segment: Medical diagnostics (high demand for rapid and accurate tools)
Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on improving sensitivity, portability, and ease of use. Miniaturized biosensors integrated with smartphone technology are gaining traction, providing point-of-care diagnostics capabilities. Furthermore, advancements in materials science are leading to the development of biosensors with enhanced performance and durability. These innovations are responding directly to market demand for affordable, accessible, and accurate diagnostic tools.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report segments the Europe molecular biosensors market by technology (Electrochemical, Optical, Thermal, Other) and application (Medical Diagnostics, Food & Beverages, Environment Safety, Defense & Security, Other). Each segment's growth projections, market size, and competitive dynamics are extensively analyzed. The medical diagnostics segment is projected to experience the fastest growth, driven by increasing healthcare spending and the demand for personalized medicine. Electrochemical biosensors are expected to maintain their market dominance owing to their cost-effectiveness and established technology.
Key Drivers of Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Growth
Several factors fuel the growth of the Europe molecular biosensors market. Firstly, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases creates a strong demand for accurate and rapid diagnostic tools. Secondly, advancements in nanotechnology and microfluidics enhance biosensor performance and portability. Thirdly, government initiatives promoting healthcare innovation and investment further boost market growth. Finally, the rising adoption of point-of-care diagnostics streamlines healthcare delivery and improves patient outcomes.
Challenges in the Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Sector
The industry faces challenges such as stringent regulatory requirements, high R&D costs, and competition from established diagnostic technologies. Supply chain disruptions can impact production and availability, while the integration of advanced technologies like AI and machine learning into biosensors necessitates overcoming significant technological barriers. The overall impact on market growth could be as high as xx% if not addressed efficiently.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry
Emerging opportunities include the development of wearable biosensors for continuous health monitoring, the application of biosensors in environmental monitoring and food safety, and the integration of artificial intelligence for data analysis and diagnostics. These trends create opportunities for innovation and expansion into new market segments.
Leading Players in the Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Market
- Medtronic PLC
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd
- Danaher (Cytiva)
- Siemens Healthcare
- Nova Biomedical Corporation
- Johnson & Johnson
- Sysmex Corporation
- Abbott Laboratories Inc
- Dynamic Biosensors GmbH
Key Developments in Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry
- July 2022: Delta Diagnostics secures seed funding to further develop biosensor systems.
- March 2022: SD Biosensor acquires Bestbion for USD 13.2 Million, expanding its market reach.
Future Outlook for Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Market
The future of the Europe molecular biosensors market is bright, driven by continuous technological advancements, increasing healthcare spending, and growing demand for personalized medicine. Strategic partnerships, collaborations, and investments in R&D are expected to further propel market growth, creating significant opportunities for industry players.
Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Segmentation
-
1. Technology
- 1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 1.4. Other Technologies
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 2.2. Food and Beverages
- 2.3. Environment Safety
- 2.4. Defense and Security
- 2.5. Other Applications
Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Germany
- 2. United Kingdom
- 3. France
- 4. Italy
- 5. Spain
- 6. Rest of Europe

Europe Molecular Biosensors 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 5.90% 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 Prevalence of Chronic and Lifestyle Induced Diseases; Growing Demand for Point of Care Testing; Increasing Application of Biosensors in Various Industries
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Strict Regulatory Requirements for Biosensors; High Cost Involved in Research and Development
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Electrochemical Biosensors is Expected to Witness Healthy Growth over the Forecast Period
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 5.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 5.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 5.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 5.1.4. Other Technologies
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 5.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 5.2.3. Environment Safety
- 5.2.4. Defense and Security
- 5.2.5. Other Applications
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Germany
- 5.3.2. United Kingdom
- 5.3.3. France
- 5.3.4. Italy
- 5.3.5. Spain
- 5.3.6. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 6. Germany Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 6.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 6.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 6.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 6.1.4. Other Technologies
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 6.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 6.2.3. Environment Safety
- 6.2.4. Defense and Security
- 6.2.5. Other Applications
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 7. United Kingdom Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 7.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 7.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 7.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 7.1.4. Other Technologies
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 7.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 7.2.3. Environment Safety
- 7.2.4. Defense and Security
- 7.2.5. Other Applications
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 8. France Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 8.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 8.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 8.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 8.1.4. Other Technologies
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 8.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 8.2.3. Environment Safety
- 8.2.4. Defense and Security
- 8.2.5. Other Applications
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 9. Italy Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 9.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 9.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 9.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 9.1.4. Other Technologies
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 9.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 9.2.3. Environment Safety
- 9.2.4. Defense and Security
- 9.2.5. Other Applications
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 10. Spain Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 10.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 10.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 10.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 10.1.4. Other Technologies
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 10.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 10.2.3. Environment Safety
- 10.2.4. Defense and Security
- 10.2.5. Other Applications
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 11. Rest of Europe Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 11.1.1. Electrochemical Biosensors
- 11.1.2. Optical Biosensors
- 11.1.3. Thermal Biosensors
- 11.1.4. Other Technologies
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11.2.1. Medical Diagnostics
- 11.2.2. Food and Beverages
- 11.2.3. Environment Safety
- 11.2.4. Defense and Security
- 11.2.5. Other Applications
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 12. Germany Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. France Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14. Italy Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 15. United Kingdom Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. Netherlands Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Sweden Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. Rest of Europe Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Competitive Analysis
- 19.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 19.2. Company Profiles
- 19.2.1 Medtronic PLC
- 19.2.1.1. Overview
- 19.2.1.2. Products
- 19.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.2 F Hoffmann La Roche Ltd
- 19.2.2.1. Overview
- 19.2.2.2. Products
- 19.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.3 Danaher (Cytiva)
- 19.2.3.1. Overview
- 19.2.3.2. Products
- 19.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.4 Siemens Healthcare
- 19.2.4.1. Overview
- 19.2.4.2. Products
- 19.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.5 Nova Biomedical Corporation
- 19.2.5.1. Overview
- 19.2.5.2. Products
- 19.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.6 Johnson & Johnson
- 19.2.6.1. Overview
- 19.2.6.2. Products
- 19.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.7 Sysmex Corporation
- 19.2.7.1. Overview
- 19.2.7.2. Products
- 19.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.8 Abbott Laboratories Inc
- 19.2.8.1. Overview
- 19.2.8.2. Products
- 19.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.9 Dynamic Biosensors GmbH
- 19.2.9.1. Overview
- 19.2.9.2. Products
- 19.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 19.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 19.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 19.2.1 Medtronic PLC
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 5.90%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry?
Key companies in the market include Medtronic PLC, F Hoffmann La Roche Ltd, Danaher (Cytiva), Siemens Healthcare, Nova Biomedical Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Sysmex Corporation, Abbott Laboratories Inc, Dynamic Biosensors GmbH.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry?
The market segments include Technology, Application.
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 Prevalence of Chronic and Lifestyle Induced Diseases; Growing Demand for Point of Care Testing; Increasing Application of Biosensors in Various Industries.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Electrochemical Biosensors is Expected to Witness Healthy Growth over the Forecast Period.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Strict Regulatory Requirements for Biosensors; High Cost Involved in Research and Development.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
July 2022: Delta Diagnostics received a seed investment from two leading innovators: research organization TNO (The Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research) and PhotonDelta. This investment enables Delta Diagnostics to further develop and validate its biosensor systems in preparation for a Series A investment round in 2022.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Molecular Biosensors 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 Europe Molecular Biosensors 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 Europe Molecular Biosensors Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Molecular Biosensors 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