Accounting Changes And Error Corrections [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements Accounts Payable Current Accounts payable Accounts Receivable Net Current Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $4,562 as of September 30, 2012, and $4,615 as of December 31, 2011 Comprises the sum of 1) carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable, pertaining to costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered. Examples include taxes, interest, rent and utilities. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer); and 2) the aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet due to materiality considerations. Current liabilities are expected to be paid within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Accrued Liabilities And Other Current Liabilities Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Defined Benefit Pension And Other Postretirement Plans Net Of Tax Retirement plan liabilities, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Net Of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustment Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated other comprehensive income loss note disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Note Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] This element represents the amount of equity-based compensation recognized during the period as an expense in the income statement related to share-based compensation awards granted to employees and non-employees and the expense related to employee stock purchase programs. Other long-term incentive plans are excluded. Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital For Share Based Compensation And Employee Stock Purchase Plan Non-cash share-based compensation Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Tax Effect From Share Based Compensation Excess tax benefits from share-based awards Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Amortization Of Intangible Assets Amortization of other intangible assets Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount Shares excluded from the computation of the diluted net income per weighted-average common share Assets Total assets Assets [Abstract] Assets Assets Current Total current assets Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Board DSUs And Dividend Equivalents Granted To Board [Member] Board Dsus And Dividend Equivalents Granted To Board [Member] Board DSUs And Dividend Equivalents Granted To Board Board DSUs Granted To Nonemployee Directors [Member] Board Dsus Granted To Nonemployee Directors [Member] Board Dsus Granted To Nonemployee Directors Board of Directors [Member] Board Of Directors [Member] Board of Directors Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration At Fair Value Fair value of contingent consideration Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Expiration Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Expiration Contingent consideration expiration year Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Period For Performance Evaluation Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Period For Performance Evaluation Period for performance evaluation, years Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Potential Cash Payment Potential cash payment to shareholders Business Acquisition Cost Of Acquired Entity Cash Paid Business acquisition, cash paid Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Date when the acquirer obtains control of the acquiree, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Business Acquistion Effective Date Of Acquisition 1 Business acquisition, effective date Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions Cash And Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Period Increase Decrease Net change in cash and cash equivalents Chief Executive Officer [Member] Chief Executive Officer Class action settlement. Class Action Settlement Class action settlement Common Stock Dividends Per Share Cash Paid Cash dividend paid for common shares Common Stock Dividends Per Share Declared Dividends declared per common share outstanding Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Common Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, par value Common Stock Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock Shares Issued Common stock, shares issued Common Stock Shares Outstanding Balance as of September 30, 2012, shares outstanding Balance as of December 31, 2011, shares outstanding Common Stock Value Common stock, $0.50 par value, 500,000 shares authorized, 32,338 shares issued as of September 30, 2012, and December 31, 2011 Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Comprehensive income Concentration Risk By Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Concentration Risk Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Cost And Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Equity and Other Investments Cost Method Investments Ending balance at September 30, cost method investments Beginning balance, cost method investments Cost investment Costmethod Investments Realized Losses Excluding Other Than Temporary Impairments Loss on sale of investment Cost Of Revenue Cost of revenue Cost Of Sales [Member] Cost of Revenue Costs And Expenses Total costs and expenses Costs And Expenses [Abstract] Costs and expenses Disclosure of the maximum base value of the line of credit authorized pursuant to the terms of the debt agreement, without the consideration of any expansion clause terms. Credit Facility Base Amount Finance through unsecured revolving credit facility Cumulative amount of insurance proceeds received to date for legal expenses related to certain legal actions covered by insurance provider. Cumulative Insurance Settlement Proceeds Insurance reimbursements Cumulated fees and costs incurred from the inception date of certain legal actions. Cumulative Legal Fees And Costs Cumulative legal fees and costs Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer Concentration Risk Customer One [Member] Customer One [Member] Customer One Customer Two [Member] Customer Two [Member] Customer Two Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets [Abstract] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Line Items] Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Line Items] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Line Items] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table] Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Table] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Table] Deferred Income Tax Expense Benefit Deferred income taxes Deferred Revenue Current Deferred revenue Deferred Tax Assets Liabilities Net Current Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets Net Noncurrent Noncurrent deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities Defined Benefit Plan Amortization Of Gains Losses Amortization of net loss Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Expected Return On Plan Assets Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan Interest Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan Net Periodic Benefit Cost Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Defined Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan Service Cost Service cost Defined Benefit Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Postretirement Healthcare Plan Depreciation Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment Disclosure - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Disclosure Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Disclosure - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Disclosure Acquisitions Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Acquisitions Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Acquisitions Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Basis of Presentation and Consolidation - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Basis Of Presentation And Consolidation Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Basis of Presentation and Consolidation - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Changes in Goodwill [Abstract] Disclosure Changes In Goodwill [Abstract] Disclosure - Changes in Goodwill [Abstract] Disclosure - Changes in Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Disclosure Changes In Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Disclosure - Changes in Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Disclosure - Components of Periodic Benefit Costs for Defined-Benefit Pension, Postretirement Healthcare and Supplemental Retirement Plan [Abstract] Disclosure Components Of Periodic Benefit Costs For Defined Benefit Pension Postretirement Healthcare And Supplemental Retirement Plan [Abstract] Disclosure - Components of Periodic Benefit Costs for Defined-Benefit Pension, Postretirement Healthcare and Supplemental Retirement Plan [Abstract] Disclosure - Concentration Risk - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Concentration Risk Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Concentration Risk - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Debt Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Debt Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Debt Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Equity and Other Investments [Abstract] Disclosure Equity And Other Investments [Abstract] Disclosure - Equity and Other Investments [Abstract] Disclosure - Equity and Other Investments - Additional information [Abstract] Disclosure Equity And Other Investments Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Equity and Other Investments - Additional information [Abstract] Disclosure - Income Statement Recognition of Share-Based Compensation [Abstract] Disclosure Income Statement Recognition Of Share Based Compensation [Abstract] Disclosure - Income Statement Recognition of Share-Based Compensation [Abstract] Disclosure - Investment Activity [Abstract] Disclosure Investment Activity [Abstract] Disclosure - Investment Activity [Abstract] Disclosure - Net Income per Weighted-Average Common Share - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Net Income Per Weighted Average Common Share Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Net Income per Weighted-Average Common Share - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments [Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Disclosure - Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Abstract] Disclosure Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets [Abstract] Disclosure - Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Abstract] Disclosure - Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Quantitative Radio Audience Ratings Service and Related Software Licensing Revenue Accounted Aggregate Percentages of Total Company Revenue [Abstract] Disclosure Quantitative Radio Audience Ratings Service And Related Software Licensing Revenue Accounted Aggregate Percentages Of Total Company Revenue [Abstract] Disclosure - Quantitative Radio Audience Ratings Service and Related Software Licensing Revenue Accounted Aggregate Percentages of Total Company Revenue [Abstract] Disclosure - Share-Based Compensation Activity Other Than Stock Option [Abstract] Disclosure Share Based Compensation Activity Other Than Stock Option [Abstract] Disclosure - Share-Based Compensation Activity Other Than Stock Option [Abstract] Disclosure Share Based Compensation Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Share Based Compensation Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Share Based Compensation Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Stockholders Equity Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Stockholders Equity Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Stockholders Equity Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Stock Repurchases - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Stock Repurchases Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure - Stock Repurchases - Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Taxes Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Taxes Additional Information [Abstract] Disclosure Taxes Additional Information [Abstract] Dividend Paid [Member] Dividend Paid Dividends Dividends declared Dividends [Axis] Dividends Dividends [Domain] Dividends [Domain] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Type Document Type DSU performance award [Member] Dsu Performance Award [Member] Dsu Performance Award DSU Service award [Member] Dsu Service Award [Member] DSU Service Award Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Income per weighted-average common share Earnings Per Share Basic Basic Earnings Per Share Diluted Diluted Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items] Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items] Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items] Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Table] Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Table] Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Table] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Net Income per Weighted-Average Common Share Effective Income Tax Rate Continuing Operations Effective tax rate Effect Of Exchange Rate On Cash And Cash Equivalents Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs Capitalized Amount Capitalized share-based compensation cost Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share Based Compensation Nonvested Awards Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share Based Compensation Nonvested Awards Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized Period For Recognition 1 Weighted-average period for which cost is expected to be recognized, in years Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Method Investee Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investment Dividends Or Distributions Distributions from affiliate Distributions from investee Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage Equity method investment, ownership percentage Equity Method Investments Ending balance at September 30, equity method investments Beginning balance, equity method investments Equity investment Excess Tax Benefit From Share Based Compensation Financing Activities Excess tax benefits realized from share-based awards Finite Lived Intangible Assets Net Other intangibles, net Goodwill Ending balance Beginning balance Goodwill, net Goodwill Acquired During Period Zokem Oy addition Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Translation Adjustments Translation effect Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income (loss) from interest, income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest. Income Before Interest And Income Tax Expense Income before interest and income tax expense Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income (loss) from income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest. Income Loss Before Income Tax Expense Income before income tax expense Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Equity in net income (loss) of affiliate Investment in affiliate (loss) income Equity in net income of affiliate Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Taxes Income Taxes Paid Income taxes paid Income Tax Expense Benefit Income tax expense Increase Decrease In Accounts Payable Accounts payable Increase Decrease In Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable Increase Decrease In Accrued Liabilities And Other Operating Liabilities Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Increase Decrease In Deferred Revenue Deferred revenue Increase Decrease In Operating Capital [Abstract] Changes in operating assets and liabilities Increase Decrease In Other Operating Liabilities Other noncurrent liabilities Increase Decrease In Prepaid Deferred Expense And Other Assets Prepaid expenses and other assets Disclosure of expansion clause amount, if any, pursuant to terms of debt agreement. Increase In Total Financing Available Under Credit Facility Increase in the total financing available under the Credit Facility Insurance Recoveries Estimated Gross insurance recoveries The amount of estimated outstanding insurance proceeds expected to be collected subsequent to the reporting period end date. Insurance Recovery Receivable Insurance recovery receivables Interest Expense Interest expense Interest Paid Interest paid, maximum The carrying value of an investment sold and charged off of the balance sheet during the reporting period. Investment Carrying Value Sold During Period Sale of investment Investment Income Interest Interest income Legal Actions [Axis] Legal Actions [Axis] Legal Actions Legal Actions [Domain] Legal Actions [Domain] Legal Actions [Domain] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Fees Legal fees Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities And Stockholders Equity Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities And Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities Current Total current liabilities Line Of Credit Facility Amount Outstanding Outstanding borrowings under the Credit Facility Line Of Credit Facility Expiration Date 1 Expiration date of unsecured revolving credit facility Line of credit facility maturity period. Line Of Credit Facility Maturity Period Maturity period of unsecured revolving credit facility, in years Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Aggregate total finance under Credit Facility Long Term Investments Ending balance at September 30, equity and other investments Beginning balance, equity and other investments Equity and other investments Equity and other investments The aggregate impact on earnings in the period of (a) the loss (gain) from the difference between the price and the book value of an asset that was sold or retired during the reporting period, and (b) the charge resulting from the aggregate write down of property, and equipment from its carrying value to its fair value. Loss On Asset Disposals And Impairments Loss on asset disposals and impairments of property and equipment Major Customers [Axis] Major Customers Maximum [Member] Maximum Maximum percentage to return on invested capital for annual performance period. Maximum Percentage To Return On Invested Capital For Annual Performance Period Maximum percentage to return on invested capital for annual performance period Maximum prevailing market price period. Maximum Prevailing Market Prices Period Maximum prevailing market price period, years Name Of Major Customer [Domain] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities Net Income Loss Net income Net income Nonvested Share Performance Awards [Member] Nonvested Share Performance Awards [Member] Performance Award Units Nonvested Share Service Awards [Member] Nonvested Share Service Awards [Member] Service Award Units Number Of Customers That Accounted For More Than Ten Percent Of Revenue During Period Number Of Customers That Accounted For More Than Ten Percent Of Revenue During Period Number of customer accounting for more than ten percent of revenue Number Of Individual Customers Accounting For More Than Ten Percent Of Accounts Receivable Number Of Individual Customers Accounting For More Than Ten Percent Of Accounts Receivable Number of customer accounting for more than ten percent of accounts receivable Number Of Reportable Segments Number of reportable segments Operating Income Loss Operating income Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Table] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Table] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Table] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Consolidation Other Assets Noncurrent Other noncurrent assets Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Gain Loss Arising During Period Net Of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Other comprehensive income Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income Loss Reclassification Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Net Gain Loss Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost Tax Amortization of actuarial loss, tax expense Other Comprehensive Income Reclassification Of Defined Benefit Plans Net Gain Loss Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost Net Of Tax Amortization of actuarial loss, net of tax expense of $201, and $151 for the three-month periods ended September 30, 2012, and 2011, respectively; and net of tax expense of $611 and $454 for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2012, and 2011, respectively. Other Liabilities Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities Other Prepaid Expense Current Other Payments For Repurchase Of Common Stock Stock repurchases Payments Of Dividends Common Stock Dividends paid to stockholders Payments Of Financing Costs Payments for deferred financing costs Payments To Acquire Businesses Net Of Cash Acquired Payments for business acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments To Acquire Property Plant And Equipment Additions to property and equipment Pension And Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Retirement Plans Pension Plans Defined Benefit [Member] Defined-Benefit Pension Plan Percentage of accounts receivable from one customer out of total accounts receivable Percentage Of Accounts Receivable From One Customer Out Of Total Accounts Receivable Percentage of accounts receivable from one customer out of total accounts receivable Disclosure of concentration risk related to customers having 10% or more of the entity's revenue. Percentage Of Revenue From One Customer Out Of Total Revenue Percentage of revenue from one customer out of total revenue Preferred Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock Value Preferred stock, $100.00 par value, 750 shares authorized, no shares issued Prepaid And Other Current Assets [Line Items] Prepaid And Other Current Assets [Line Items] Prepaid And Other Current Assets [Line Items] Prepaid Expense And Other Assets Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaids and other current assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Prepaid Royalties Prepaid Scarborough royalties Prepaid Taxes Prepaid income taxes Proceeds From Issuance Of Long Term Debt Debt borrowings Proceeds From Sale And Maturity Of Other Investments Proceeds from sale of cost investment Proceeds from sale of investment Proceeds from sale of investment Proceeds From Stock Plans Proceeds from stock option exercises and stock purchase plan Property Plant And Equipment Net Property and equipment, net Provision For Doubtful Accounts Bad debt expense Quantitative radio audience ratings and related software licensing to total revenue, percentage. Quantitative Radio Audience Ratings And Related Software Licensing To Total Revenue Percentage Quantitative radio audience ratings service and related software licensing revenue Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Member] Range [Domain] The portion of the cost investment sale price recorded as a receivable at the time of the sale. Receivable Portion Of Sale Price Of Cost Investment Receivable from sale of investment Receivable from sale of investment Repayments Of Long Term Debt Debt repayments Research And Development Expense Research and development Research And Development Expense [Member] Research and Development Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit Retained earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings Revenues Revenue Risks And Uncertainties [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Abstract] Scarborough [Member] Scarborough [Member] Scarborough Schedule Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Table [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Schedule Of Business Acquisitions By Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule Of Components Of Periodic Benefit Costs For Defined-Benefit Pension Postretirement Healthcare And Supplemental Retirement Plan [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Components Of Periodic Benefit Costs For Defined Benefit Pension Postretirement Healthcare And Supplemental Retirement Plan Table [Text Block] Components of Periodic Benefit Costs for Defined-Benefit Pension, Postretirement Healthcare and Supplemental Retirement Plan Schedule Of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule Of Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs By Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line Schedule Of Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Text Block] Income Statement Recognition of Share-Based Compensation Schedule of Equity and Cost Investments [Line Items] Schedule Of Equity And Cost Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity and Cost Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity and Cost Investments [Table] Schedule Of Equity And Cost Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity and Cost Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity and Cost Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Equity And Cost Investments Table [Text Block] Equity and Cost Investments Schedule Of Equity And Other Investments [Line Items] Schedule Of Equity And Other Investments [Line Items] Schedule Of Equity And Other Investments [Line Items] Schedule Of Equity Method Investment Equity Method Investee Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name Schedule Of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule Of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule Of Gain Loss On Investments [Table] Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table] Schedule Of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule Of Goodwill [Text Block] Changes in Goodwill Schedule Of Prepaids And Other Current Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Prepaids And Other Current Assets Table [Text Block] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule Of Stockholders Equity Table [Text Block] Changes in Stockholders' Equity Schedules Of Concentration Of Risk By Risk Factor [Text Block] Quantitative Radio Audience Ratings Service and Related Software Licensing Revenue Accounted Aggregate Percentages of Total Company Revenue Securities-Law Civil Actions And A Governmental Interaction [Member] Securities Law Civil Actions And Governmental Interaction [Member] Securities-Law Civil Actions And A Governmental Interaction Selling General And Administrative Expense Selling, general and administrative Selling, General, And Administrative [Member] Selling General And Administrative [Member] Selling, General And Administrative Share Based Compensation Non-cash share-based compensation Share-based compensation Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award activity Other Than Options [Table Text Block] Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Activity Other Than Options Table [Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Activity Other Than Stock Option Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting, Number Of Installments Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Award Vesting Number Of Installments Share-based compensation options awarded, number of installments Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Award Vesting Period 1 Share-based compensation awarded, vesting period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Grants In Period Number of shares granted during the period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Grants In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted average grant-date fair value per share granted during the period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested In Period Total Fair Value Fair value of shares vested during the period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Options, Expiration Term Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Expiration Term Stock options term (in years) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Grants In Period Number of stock options granted Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Outstanding Number Stock options to purchase common stock Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Outstanding Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price for outstanding stock options Sharebased Compensation Arrangement By Sharebased Payment Award Options Outstanding Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term 2 Weighted-average remaining contractual term for outstanding stock options Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award Award Type And Plan Name [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award Options Grants In Period Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price for stock options granted Share Based Compensation Arrangement With Individual [Axis] Share Based Compensation Arrangement With Individual [Axis] Share Based Compensation Arrangement With Individual [Axis] Share Based Compensation Arrangement With Individual [Domain] Share Based Compensation Arrangement With Individual [Domain] Share Based Compensation Arrangement With Individual [Domain] Statement Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Statement Of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Stockholders Equity Balance as of September 30, 2012 Balance as of December 31, 2011 Total stockholders' equity Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity [Line Items] Stockholders Equity [Line Items] Stockholders' Equity [Line Items] Stockholders Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity [Table] Stockholders Equity [Table] Stockholders' Equity [Table] Gross number of shares (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan and employee stock purchase plan. Shares issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Stock Issued During Period Shares Share Based Compensation And Employee Stock Purchase Plans Gross Common stock issued from treasury stock, shares outstanding Gross value of stock (or other type of equity) issued during the period as a result of any equity-based compensation plan and employee stock purchase plan. Stock issued could result from the issuance of restricted stock, the exercise of stock options, stock issued under employee stock purchase plans, and/or other employee benefit plans. Stock Issued During Period Value Share Based Compensation And Employee Stock Purchase Plan Gross Common stock issued from treasury stock Stock Options [Member] Stock Options Stock Repurchase Program Authorized Amount Amount of authorized repurchase of outstanding common stock Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items] Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items] Stock Repurchase Programs [Line Items] Stock Repurchase Programs [Table] Stock Repurchase Programs [Table] Stock Repurchase Programs [Table] Number of shares repurchased during the period and held in treasury. Stock Repurchases During Period Shares Common stock repurchased, shares outstanding Common stock repurchased, shares outstanding Equity impact of the value of the stock repurchased during the period and held in treasury. Stock Repurchases During Period Value Stock repurchases during period value Common stock repurchased The entire disclosure for an entity's stock repurchase program, including description of share repurchase program authorized by an entity's board of directors, the number of shares repurchased, the cost of the shares repurchased, and any other information necessary for fair presentation. Stock Repurchases Program [Text Block] Stock Repurchases Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Summary Of Investment Activity [Table Text Block] Summary Of Investment Activity Table [Text Block] Investment Activity Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan Defined Benefit [Member] Supplemental Retirement Plan Survey participant incentives and prepaid postage. Survey Participant Incentives And Prepaid Postage Survey participant incentives and prepaid postage Text Block [Abstract] Text Block [Abstract] Trading Symbol Trading Symbol TRA Global, Inc [Member] Tra Global Inc [Member] TRA Investment Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock Shares Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock Value Common stock held in treasury, 6,178 shares as of September 30, 2012, and 5,048 shares as of December 31, 2011 T R A Preferred Stock [Member] T R Preferred Stock [Member] TRA Preferred Stock Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits That Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized would reduce effective tax rate in future periods Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Potentially dilutive securities Weighted Average Number Of Diluted Shares Outstanding Diluted Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares used in calculations Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Basic Basic