ISM (Institute for Supply Management)

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) is a professional organization that tracks and reports on the health of the manufacturing and service sectors of the economy. It conducts surveys of businesses to gather data on factors like production, employment, and new orders. The ISM's reports help economists, policymakers, and companies understand economic trends and make informed decisions. Its most well-known indicator, the ISM Manufacturing Index, reflects whether the manufacturing industry is growing or contracting, providing a snapshot of overall economic activity and confidence.