ISM's Backlog of Orders Index registered 45% in November, which is 2.5 %age points lower than the 47.5% reported in October. Of the 86% of respondents who reported their backlog of orders, 15% reported greater backlogs, 25% reported smaller backlogs, and 60 % reported no change from October.
The three industries reporting increased order backlogs in November are Textile Mills; Primary Metals; and Computer & Electronic Products. The 10 industries reporting decreases in order backlogs during November listed in order are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; Machinery; Petroleum & Coal Products; Paper Products and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products.
| Backlog of Orders | % Reporting | % Greater | % Same | % Less | Net | Index |
| Nov '11 | 86 | 15 | 60 | 25 | -10 | 45 |
| Oct '11 | 82 | 19 | 57 | 24 | -5 | 47.5 |
| Sep '11 | 86 | 15 | 53 | 32 | -17 | 41.5 |
| Aug '11 | 86 | 15 | 62 | 23 | -8 | 46 |
