Economic activity in the non-manufacturing sector rose in September at a faster pace than August, according to the Institute for Supply Management’s non-manufacturing report on business released today.

The institute’s non-manufacturing index rose to a reading of 55.1 in September from August’s reading of 53.7. Readings above 50 indicate growth.

However, the employment portion of the index dipped after growth in August, dropping to a reading of 51.1 from a reading of 53.8 in August.