As manufacturers enter the fourth quarter of one of the most unique years ever, the Gardner Business Index (GBI) is one of the best resources available to help manufacturing leaders know how to prepare for the future. In the last few months, the Index has captured the early expansion of business conditions, especially the rebound in domestic new orders activity which has been closely shadowed by expanding production. Of all the factors in play, continued activity gains will be subject to supply chain constraints, especially as transportation services begin dealing with the seasonal rush of year-end purchases.