Key Insights
The automated window market, valued at $5.59 billion in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.75% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. Increasing demand for smart home technology and enhanced convenience are major contributors. Consumers are increasingly seeking automated solutions to improve energy efficiency, enhance security, and personalize their living spaces. The rising adoption of motorized shades and blinds, offering precise light control and improved insulation, fuels market growth across various product types, including motorized roller shades, motorized zebra shades, and motorized drapery systems. Furthermore, the integration of smart home ecosystems and voice-activated controls is simplifying operation and further boosting market appeal. Technological advancements, such as the development of more durable and energy-efficient motors and improved connectivity options, are contributing to the market's upward trajectory. The growing construction industry, particularly in regions with strong economic growth, also presents significant opportunities for automated window system adoption.
Market segmentation reveals a diverse landscape. Motorized roller shades and motorized zebra shades currently dominate, reflecting consumer preference for sleek designs and ease of use. However, the motorized drapery systems segment is also showing promising growth, driven by increasing demand for luxurious and customizable window treatments in high-end residential and commercial projects. The "Other Product Types" segment encompasses connectable controllers and other smart home integration components, showcasing the interconnected nature of the automated window market within the broader smart home technology sphere. Geographic analysis indicates strong growth potential across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, fueled by varying levels of technological adoption and economic development. While North America currently holds a significant market share, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness rapid growth due to increasing disposable incomes and urbanization. The continued integration of sophisticated control systems and innovative designs will be critical for maintaining this strong growth trajectory in the years to come.
Automated Windows Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Automated Windows Market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional insights, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. With a focus on the parent market of Smart Home Technology and the child market of Automated Window Coverings, this report offers invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The study period covers 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. Market values are presented in million units.
Automated Windows Market Market Dynamics & Structure
The Automated Windows Market exhibits moderate concentration, with several key players commanding significant market share. This dynamic market is experiencing robust growth, primarily driven by advancements in smart home integration, energy efficiency technologies, and a heightened consumer focus on sustainability. Stringent regulatory frameworks concerning energy efficiency and building codes are further propelling market adoption. While traditional window coverings remain a competitive alternative, the increasing demand for convenience, automation, and energy savings significantly favors automated window solutions. Key market segments include homeowners in developed economies with higher disposable incomes, particularly in North America and Europe. The market also sees moderate M&A activity, supplemented by a growing prevalence of strategic partnerships focused on technological innovation and market expansion.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with the top 5 players holding an estimated xx% market share in 2024. This concentration is expected to [increase/decrease/remain stable] in the coming years due to [reason].
- Technological Innovation: Advancements in motor technology, seamless smart home integration (e.g., Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Thread, Matter), and the utilization of energy-efficient materials (such as [specific examples]) are crucial growth drivers.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Building codes and energy efficiency standards are significantly influencing market growth, particularly in regions with stringent regulations like [mention specific regions and regulations].
- Competitive Substitutes: Traditional window coverings remain competitive, but the advantages of automated systems – including [list key advantages, e.g., enhanced security, improved energy efficiency, convenience] – are driving substantial market share gains.
- End-User Demographics: High-income households in North America and Europe represent major market segments, but growth is also observed in [mention other regions showing growth and reasons].
- M&A Trends: Moderate M&A activity continues, with a clear focus on strategic partnerships and technology acquisitions; approximately xx deals were recorded between 2019-2024, indicating [positive or negative trend and reason].
Automated Windows Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Automated Windows Market experienced significant growth during the historical period (2019-2024), driven by factors such as increasing demand for smart home technology, rising disposable incomes in key markets, and government initiatives promoting energy efficiency. The market size is projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching xx million units by 2033. This growth is attributed to the increasing adoption of smart home technologies, rising consumer awareness of energy efficiency, and the introduction of innovative product features. Market penetration is expected to increase from xx% in 2024 to xx% by 2033. Technological disruptions, particularly in areas such as AI-powered controls and improved connectivity, will further propel market growth. Consumer behavior is shifting towards convenience, personalized control, and energy-conscious choices, driving demand for sophisticated automated window systems.
Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Automated Windows Market
North America currently dominates the automated windows market, fueled by high adoption rates of smart home technology and a robust construction sector. Europe follows closely, with strong demand driven by favorable government regulations incentivizing energy-efficient solutions and a growing consumer awareness of sustainability. Within product types, Motorized Roller Shades maintain market leadership, followed by Motorized Zebra Shades. However, the "Other Product Types" segment (including connectable controllers and advanced smart systems) is experiencing the most rapid growth, fueled by the increasing demand for sophisticated smart home integration and enhanced control functionalities. This segment is projected to reach xx% market share by [year].
- Key Drivers in North America: High disposable incomes, robust construction activity, and early adoption of smart home technologies.
- Key Drivers in Europe: Stringent energy efficiency regulations, heightened consumer awareness of sustainability, and a strong emphasis on home automation.
- Market Share by Product Type (2024): Motorized Roller Shades (xx%), Motorized Zebra Shades (xx%), Motorized Drapery Systems (xx%), Other Product Types (xx%). [Include projections for future years if available].
- Growth Potential: The "Other Product Types" segment exhibits the highest growth potential due to the surging demand for seamless smart home integration and advanced control systems offering features such as [list features].
Automated Windows Market Product Landscape
The Automated Windows Market offers a diverse range of products catering to varied consumer needs and preferences. Innovations focus on enhanced energy efficiency, improved connectivity, advanced control systems (e.g., voice-activated, app-based), and seamless integration with other smart home devices. Products are differentiated by features like motor type, material choices (e.g., fabrics, materials), and level of smart home integration. Unique selling propositions include energy savings, enhanced security features, and improved convenience. Technological advancements continually enhance product performance, reliability, and user experience.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Automated Windows Market
Key Drivers:
- Increasing adoption of smart home technologies and the Internet of Things (IoT).
- Rising consumer demand for energy efficiency and associated cost savings.
- Growing awareness of sustainability and the preference for eco-friendly building materials.
- Government initiatives and incentives promoting energy-efficient buildings and smart city development.
- Enhanced home security features offered by automated window systems.
Challenges & Restraints:
- High initial investment costs compared to traditional window coverings, although [mention potential financing options or decreasing costs].
- Potential complexity of installation and integration with existing smart home systems, but [mention improvements in ease of installation or professional installation services].
- Dependence on reliable power supply and internet connectivity for full functionality, however [mention solutions like battery backups or offline functionality].
- Intense competition from established players and emerging market entrants, resulting in approximately xx% annual price pressure. This pressure is countered by [mention counter strategies, such as differentiation through technology or premium features].
Emerging Opportunities in Automated Windows Market
- Expansion into developing economies with growing middle classes and increasing disposable incomes.
- Development of innovative products incorporating AI and machine learning for enhanced control and automation.
- Integration with other smart home systems and platforms to create a cohesive and user-friendly experience.
- Focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Growth Accelerators in the Automated Windows Market Industry
Several factors are poised to significantly accelerate growth within the Automated Windows Market. Technological advancements in motor technology, encompassing [specific technologies], along with enhanced smart home integration capabilities and innovative material science are key enablers. Strategic partnerships between manufacturers and technology providers are fostering innovation and facilitating market expansion into new regions. Government incentives, coupled with increasingly stringent regulations promoting energy efficiency and sustainable building practices, are driving widespread market adoption. The rising focus on enhancing home security through automated window systems, including features such as [mention specific security features], presents a particularly compelling growth opportunity. Furthermore, [mention any other emerging trends, like integration with voice assistants or AI-powered controls].
Key Players Shaping the Automated Windows Market Market
- Inter IKEA Systems BV
- Hunter Douglas
- The Shade Store LLC
- Somfy Systems Inc
- Lutron Electronics Co Inc
- Griesser AG
- Springblinds
- [Add other key players if needed]
Notable Milestones in Automated Windows Market Sector
- March 2022: SelectBlinds.com launched Motorized Architect Roller Shades with Eve MotionBlinds, enabling Thread and Bluetooth smart home technology. This marked a significant advancement in connected blinds and shade motors.
- January 2022: View Inc.'s partnership with Nabr Homes integrated View Smart Windows into carbon-neutral homes, demonstrating the potential of automated windows in sustainable building practices.
In-Depth Automated Windows Market Market Outlook
The Automated Windows Market is poised for robust growth in the coming years, driven by the convergence of technological advancements, increasing consumer demand for smart home solutions, and supportive regulatory frameworks. Strategic opportunities lie in expanding into new markets, developing innovative products, and forging strategic partnerships. The focus on sustainability and energy efficiency will continue to shape market dynamics, creating further growth opportunities for companies that can offer environmentally responsible and technologically advanced solutions.
Automated Windows Market Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Motorized Roller Shades
- 1.2. Motorized Zebra Shades
- 1.3. Motorized Drapery Systems
- 1.4. Other Pr
Automated Windows Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. North America
- 1.1. United States
- 1.2. Canada
-
2. Europe
- 2.1. United Kingdom
- 2.2. France
- 2.3. Rest of Europe
-
3. Asia Pacific
- 3.1. China
- 3.2. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 4. Rest of the World
Automated Windows 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 9.75% 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. Growing Prominence of Smart Homes Drives Strong Demand for Automated Blinds and Shades
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Lack of Standards in Applications and Initial Costs
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Motorized Roller Shades to Hold Significant Market Share in Near Future
- 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 Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Motorized Roller Shades
- 5.1.2. Motorized Zebra Shades
- 5.1.3. Motorized Drapery Systems
- 5.1.4. Other Pr
- 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 Product Type
- 6. North America Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6.1.1. Motorized Roller Shades
- 6.1.2. Motorized Zebra Shades
- 6.1.3. Motorized Drapery Systems
- 6.1.4. Other Pr
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7. Europe Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 7.1.1. Motorized Roller Shades
- 7.1.2. Motorized Zebra Shades
- 7.1.3. Motorized Drapery Systems
- 7.1.4. Other Pr
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8. Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 8.1.1. Motorized Roller Shades
- 8.1.2. Motorized Zebra Shades
- 8.1.3. Motorized Drapery Systems
- 8.1.4. Other Pr
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9. Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 9.1.1. Motorized Roller Shades
- 9.1.2. Motorized Zebra Shades
- 9.1.3. Motorized Drapery Systems
- 9.1.4. Other Pr
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 10. North America Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1 United States
- 10.1.2 Canada
- 11. Europe Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1 United Kingdom
- 11.1.2 France
- 11.1.3 Rest of Europe
- 12. Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 12.1.1 China
- 12.1.2 Rest of Asia Pacific
- 13. Rest of the World Automated Windows 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. Global Market Share Analysis 2024
- 14.2. Company Profiles
- 14.2.1 Inter IKEA Systems BV
- 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 Hunter Douglas
- 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 The Shade Store LL
- 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 Somfy Systems Inc
- 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 Lutron Electronics Co Inc
- 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 Griesser AG
- 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 Springblinds
- 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)
- 14.2.1 Inter IKEA Systems BV
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Region 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 3: North America Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 4: Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 5: Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 6: Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 7: Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 8: Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 9: Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 10: North America Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 11: North America Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 12: North America Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 13: North America Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 14: Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 15: Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 16: Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 17: Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 18: Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 19: Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 20: Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 21: Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 22: Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 23: Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Product Type 2024 & 2032
- Figure 24: Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million), by Country 2024 & 2032
- Figure 25: Rest of the World Automated Windows Market Revenue Share (%), by Country 2024 & 2032
List of Tables
- Table 1: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: United States Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Canada Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: United Kingdom Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: France Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Rest of Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: China Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: United States Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Canada Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: United Kingdom Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: France Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Rest of Europe Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: China Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Rest of Asia Pacific Automated Windows Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Global Automated Windows Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Automated Windows Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 9.75%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Automated Windows Market?
Key companies in the market include Inter IKEA Systems BV, Hunter Douglas, The Shade Store LL, Somfy Systems Inc, Lutron Electronics Co Inc, Griesser AG, Springblinds.
3. What are the main segments of the Automated Windows Market?
The market segments include Product Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 5.59 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Growing Prominence of Smart Homes Drives Strong Demand for Automated Blinds and Shades.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Motorized Roller Shades to Hold Significant Market Share in Near Future.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Lack of Standards in Applications and Initial Costs.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
March 2022: The launch of two of their Motorized Architect Roller Shades products, powered by new Eve MotionBlinds in conjunction with Apple HomeKit Technology, has been announced by SelectBlinds.com, the online custom window décor provider. These are the first connected blinds and shade motors on the market that enable Thread smart home technology in addition to the Bluetooth capabilities of the Eve MotionBlinds motors.
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 "Automated Windows 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 Automated Windows 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 Automated Windows Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Automated Windows 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

