Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Oct. 29, 2016

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original or remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.

Investments and Equity Securities, Policy

Investments and Equity Securities

From time to time, the Company makes equity investments in non-publicly traded companies. These investments are included in “Other assets” on the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets and are generally accounted for under the cost method as the Company does not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the respective issuers’ operating and financial policies, nor does it have a liquidation preference that is substantive. The Company monitors its investments in non-publicly traded companies for impairment on a quarterly basis and makes appropriate reductions in carrying values when such impairments are determined to be other-than-temporary. Impairment charges are included in “Other income (loss), net” on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income. Factors considered in determining an impairment include, but are not limited to, the current business environment including competition and uncertainty of financial condition, going concern considerations such as the rate at which the issuer company utilizes cash and the issuer company’s ability to obtain additional financing to fulfill its stated business plan, the need for changes to the issuer company’s existing business model due to changing business environments and its ability to successfully implement necessary changes, and comparable valuations. The carrying value of the Company’s equity investments in non-publicly traded companies at October 29, 2016, and October 31, 2015, was $4.9 million and $2.5 million, respectively.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The fair value of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities, approximate cost because of their short maturities.

Derivative Financial Instruments, Policy

Derivative Financial Instruments

In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates and the exchange rates associated with foreign currencies. The derivatives entered into by the Company qualify for and are designated as foreign currency cash flow hedges.

The derivatives are recognized on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets at their respective fair values. Changes in fair values of outstanding cash flow hedges that are highly effective are recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” until earnings are affected by cash flows from the underlying hedged transaction. In most cases, amounts recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive loss” will be recorded in earnings at maturity of the related derivative. The recognition of effective hedge results offsets the gains or losses on the underlying exposure. Cash flows from derivative transactions are classified according to the nature of the risk being hedged by presenting the gain or loss on the matured derivatives and related impact from the underlying hedged transactions in the same line items on the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Income.

The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking hedge transactions. This documentation includes linking all derivatives either to specific assets and liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets or specific firm commitments or forecasted transactions. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives used in hedging transactions have been highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items and whether those derivatives may be expected to remain highly effective in future periods.

The Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively when (i) the derivative is no longer highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of a hedged item (including hedged items such as firm commitments or forecasted transactions); (ii) the derivative expires or is sold, terminated or exercised; (iii) it is no longer probable that the forecasted transaction will occur; or (iv) management determines that designating the derivative as a hedging instrument is no longer appropriate.

When the Company discontinues hedge accounting, but it continues to be probable that the forecasted transaction will occur in the originally expected period, the gain or loss on the derivative remains in accumulated other comprehensive loss and is reclassified into earnings when the forecasted transaction affects earnings. However, if it is no longer probable that a forecasted transaction will occur by the end of the originally specified time period or within an additional two-month period of time thereafter, the gain or loss that was in accumulated other comprehensive loss will be recognized immediately in earnings. In all situations in which hedge accounting is discontinued and the derivative remains outstanding, the Company will carry the derivative at its fair value on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet until maturity and will recognize future changes in the fair value in current period earnings. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recorded in current period earnings within “Other income (loss), net.” Effectiveness is assessed based upon statistical regression analysis of changes in cash flows, as well as other relevant information.

Inventory, Policy

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market. Inventory costs include material, labor, and overhead. The Company records inventory write-downs based on excess and obsolete inventory determined primarily by its forecast of future demand. A majority of the Company’s inventory is located off-site at customers’ hubs, third-party managed service depots and at contract manufacturers’ locations. Cash flows related to the sale of inventories are classified as cash flows from operating activities.

Deferred Costs

When the Company’s products have been delivered, but the product revenue associated with the arrangement has been deferred as a result of not meeting the revenue recognition criteria (see section entitled “Revenue Recognition” below), the related product costs are also deferred if the inventory is deemed recoverable. The deferred costs are recognized in cost of revenues when the related deferred revenue is recognized or when the inventory is deemed unrecoverable.

Property and Equipment, Policy

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. An estimated useful life of three years is used for computer equipment and four to seven years is used for software based on the nature of the software purchased. Estimated useful lives of up to four years are used for engineering and other equipment, seven years is used for furniture and an estimated useful life of 39 years is used for buildings with a range of ten to 30 years for some components of the buildings. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of ten years or the remaining term of the lease.

Brocade evaluates long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 360-10 Property, Plant and Equipment. Brocade assesses the fair value of the assets based on the undiscounted future cash flow the assets are expected to generate and recognizes an impairment loss when the estimated undiscounted future cash flow expected to result from the use of the asset plus net proceeds expected to result from the disposition of the asset, if any, are less than the carrying value of the asset. When Brocade identifies an impairment, Brocade reduces the carrying amount of the asset to its estimated fair value based on a discounted cash flow approach or, when available and appropriate, to comparable market values.

Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block]

Acquisition

The Company allocates the fair value of the purchase consideration of its acquisitions to the tangible assets, liabilities, and intangible assets acquired, including in-process research and development (“IPR&D”), based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. IPR&D is initially capitalized at fair value as an intangible asset with an indefinite life and assessed for impairment thereafter. When an IPR&D project is completed, the IPR&D is reclassified as an amortizable purchased intangible asset and amortized over the asset’s estimated useful life. Acquisition-related expenses and related restructuring costs are recognized separately from the business combination and are expensed as incurred.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy

Goodwill, Other Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets and Long-lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are generated as a result of business combinations. Our indefinite-lived assets are comprised of acquired IPR&D and goodwill. IPR&D is an intangible asset accounted as an indefinite-lived asset until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development effort.

During the development period, the Company conducts an IPR&D impairment test annually and whenever events or changes in facts and circumstances indicate that it is more likely than not that the IPR&D is impaired. Events which might indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, adverse cost factors, deteriorating financial performance, strategic decisions made in response to economic, market, and competitive conditions, the impact of the economic environment on us and our customer base, and/or other relevant events such as changes in management, key personnel, litigations, or customers.

The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment on an annual basis or whenever events occur or facts and circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the asset’s implied fair value. Events which might indicate impairment include, but are not limited to, strategic decisions made in response to economic and competitive conditions, the impact of the economic environment on the Company’s customer base, material negative changes in relationships with significant customers, and/or a significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period.

Effective on the first day of the fourth fiscal quarter of 2016, the Company changed the date of its annual impairment test for IPR&D and goodwill from the first day of the second fiscal quarter to the first day of the fourth fiscal quarter. This change in the annual impairment test date was made to better coincide with the timing of when the Company prepares its annual budget and financial plans as part of its regular long-range planning process. These financial plans are a key component in estimating the fair value of its reporting units, which is the basis for performing its annual impairment test. The Company believes that the change in its annual impairment test date is preferable as it allows the Company to utilize its most current projections in the annual impairment test.

Long-lived intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is recognized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the respective asset. The Company evaluates intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. Examples of such events or circumstances include, but are not limited to, significant underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results, significant changes in the manner of use of acquired assets or the strategy for the Company’s business, significant negative industry or economic trends, and/or a significant decline in the Company’s stock price for a sustained period. Impairment is recognized based on the difference between the fair value of the asset and its carrying value. For additional discussion, see Note 4, “Goodwill and Intangible Assets,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Litigation Costs, Policy

Litigation Costs

The Company is subject to the possibility of legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company regularly monitors the status of pending legal actions to evaluate both the magnitude and likelihood of any potential losses. An accrual for these potential losses is made when they are probable and the amount of loss, or possible range of loss, can be reasonably estimated. Legal costs related to such potential losses are expensed as incurred. In addition, recoveries are shown as a reduction in litigation costs in the period in which they are realized.

Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Concentrations

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, and accounts receivable. Cash and cash equivalents are primarily maintained at seven major financial institutions. Deposits held with banks may be redeemed upon demand and may exceed the amount of insurance provided on such deposits.

A majority of the Company’s accounts receivable balance is derived from sales to original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) partners in the computer storage and server industry. As of October 29, 2016, two customers accounted for a combined total of 42% (EMC Corporation (“EMC”), which was acquired by Dell, Inc. on September 7, 2016, combined with direct sales to Dell, Inc. (together “Dell EMC”) with 29% and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company (“HPE”) with 13%) of total accounts receivable. As of October 31, 2015, one customer (HPE) individually accounted for 17% of total accounts receivable. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers and generally does not require collateral on accounts receivable balances. The Company has established reserves for credit losses and sales allowances.

For each of the fiscal years ended October 29, 2016, October 31, 2015, and November 1, 2014, three customers accounted for a combined total of 39% (Dell EMC with 19%, HPE with 10%, and International Business Machines Corporation (“IBM”) with 10%), 41% (EMC with 17%, HPE with 12%, and IBM with 12%), and 46% (EMC with 18%, HPE with 12%, and IBM with 16%) of total net revenues, respectively.

The Company currently relies on single and limited sources for multiple key components used in the manufacture of its products. Additionally, the Company relies on multiple contract manufacturers (“CMs”) for the production of its products, including Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd., Accton Technology Corporation, Universal Scientific Industrial (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Flextronics Telecom Systems Ltd., and Cape EMS Manufacturing (M) Sdn. Bhd., and has a service repair arrangement with Flex Ltd. Although the Company uses standard parts and components for its products where possible, the Company’s CMs currently purchase, on the Company’s behalf, several key components used in the manufacture of products from single- or limited-source suppliers. The Company also entered into license agreements with some of its suppliers, including Qualcomm Inc., for technologies and components that are used in its products.

Revenue Recognition, Policy

Revenue Recognition

Product revenue. Substantially all of the Company’s products are integrated with software that is essential to the functionality of the equipment. Additionally, the Company provides unspecified software upgrades and enhancements related to the equipment through its maintenance contracts for most of its products. Product revenue is generally recognized when all of the following criteria have been met:


•	Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists;


•	Delivery has occurred;


•	The fee is fixed or determinable; and


•	Collectibility is reasonably assured.

OEM and direct customers are not granted specific rights of return; however, the Company may permit returns of product from customers if such product is returned in a timely manner and in good condition. In addition, certain of the Company’s contracts with OEM and direct customers include Sales Programs which entitle the customers to discounted pricing on future purchases if agreed upon volume targets are met.

The Company reduces OEM and direct customer revenue for estimated sales returns at the time of shipment and for sales programs at the later of revenue recognition or communication of the commitment for sales incentives. Sales return allowances are estimated based on historical sales returns. Sales programs are estimated based on approved sales programs versus claims under such sales programs, current trends and the Company’s expectations regarding future activity.

For newly introduced products, many of the Company’s large OEM customers require a product qualification period during which the Company’s products are tested and approved by the OEM customers for sale to their customers. Revenue recognition and related cost are deferred for shipments to new OEM customers and for shipments of newly introduced products to existing OEM customers until satisfactory evidence of completion of the product qualification has been received from the OEM customer.

Distributors are granted rights of stock rotation which are limited to a contractually specified percentage of the distributor’s aggregate purchase volume. These stock rotation rights are subject to expiration 180 days from the time of product shipment by the Company to the distributor. Distributor sales are also subject to Sales Program incentives and to deal-specific rebates that are payable to distributors upon sale of the related product by the distributor to an ultimate customer. Prior to the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended October 29, 2016, the Company had not yet developed a historical dataset sufficient to allow for reliable estimation of distributor rebates contemporaneously with the shipment of product to the distributor. For this reason, the ultimate price of distributor sales was not deemed determinable until the period in which the distributor’s sale to the ultimate customer took place. Accordingly, revenue from sales to the Company’s distributor customers was recognized in the same period in which the product was actually sold by the distributor (sell-through).

The Company initiated a project to enhance the capture of distributor point of sale (“POS”) data in fiscal year 2014. This project resulted in the Company being able to associate specific rebates reflected in the distributor POS data to specific sales quotes maintained in the Company’s quoting system. Therefore, beginning in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended October 29, 2016, the historical distributor rebates and matching sales reflected in the Company’s historical dataset grew to reach approximately two years. Since the distributors must claim rebates within 180 days from their receipt of the related product, two years was deemed sufficient for purposes of making reliable estimates of ultimate rebate claims. Accordingly, beginning in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended October 29, 2016, revenue from sales to distributor customers is recognized upon shipment to the distributor (sell-in) and is reduced by allowances for rebates, sales program incentives, and stock rotations, which are all estimated by a process using both historical experience and expectations of future outcomes based on facts and circumstances available contemporaneously at the date of estimation.

As a result of this change from a sell-through method to a sell-in method for distributor sales, revenues totaling $14.4 million that would have otherwise been deferred at October 29, 2016, were recognized during the fourth quarter of the year then ended. In addition, the related cost of goods sold totaling $4.0 million that would have been similarly deferred were also recognized in the fourth quarter of the year ended October 29, 2016.

The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts, which is also accounted for as a reduction in revenue. The Company establishes the allowance for doubtful accounts to ensure accounts receivable are not overstated due to uncollectibility. The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts based upon the analysis of accounts receivable, historical collection patterns, customer concentrations, customer creditworthiness, current economic trends, changes in customer payment terms and practices, and customer communication. The Company records a specific reserve for individual accounts when it becomes aware of a customer’s likely inability to meet its financial obligations, such as in the case of bankruptcy filings or deterioration in the customer’s operating results or financial position. If circumstances related to customers change, the Company would further adjust estimates of the recoverability of receivables.

Multiple-element arrangements. The Company’s multiple-element product offerings include networking hardware with embedded software products and support, which are considered separate units of accounting. For certain of the Company’s products, software and non-software components function together to deliver the tangible products’ essential functionality.

The Company allocates revenue to each element in a multiple-element arrangement based upon their relative selling price. When applying the relative selling price method, the Company determines the selling price for each deliverable using vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of selling price, if it exists, or third-party evidence (“TPE”) of selling price. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exist for a deliverable, the Company uses its best estimate of selling price for that deliverable. Revenue allocated to each element is then recognized when the basic revenue recognition criteria are met for each element.

The Company determines VSOE based on its normal pricing and discounting practices for the specific product or service when sold separately. In determining VSOE, the Company requires that a substantial majority of the selling prices for a product or service fall within a reasonably narrow pricing range. For post-contract customer support (“PCS”), the Company considers stated renewal rates in determining VSOE.

In most instances, the Company is not able to establish VSOE for all deliverables in an arrangement with multiple elements. This may be due to the Company infrequently selling each element separately, not pricing products within a narrow range, or only having a limited sales history. When VSOE cannot be established, the Company attempts to establish the selling price for each element based on TPE. TPE is determined based on competitor prices for similar deliverables when sold separately. Generally, the Company’s go-to-market strategy differs from that of its peers and its offerings contain a significant level of customization and differentiation such that the comparable pricing of products with similar functionality cannot be obtained. Furthermore, the Company is unable to reliably determine what similar competitor products’ selling prices are on a stand-alone basis. Therefore, the Company is typically unable to determine TPE.

When the Company is unable to establish selling price using VSOE or TPE, the Company uses best estimated selling price (“BESP”) in its allocation of the arrangement consideration. The objective of BESP is to determine the price at which the Company would transact a sale if the product or service were sold on a stand-alone basis. BESP is generally used for offerings that are not typically sold on a stand-alone basis or for new or highly customized offerings.

The Company determines BESP for a product by considering multiple factors including, but not limited to, geographies, market conditions, competitive landscape, internal costs, gross margin objectives and pricing practices. The determination of BESP is made through consultation with and formal approval by the Company’s management, taking into consideration the go-to-market strategy.

The Company regularly reviews VSOE, TPE and BESP, as well as the establishment and updates of these estimates. There was no material impact on revenues during the fiscal year ended October 29, 2016, nor does the Company expect a material impact in the near term from changes in VSOE, TPE or BESP.

Services revenue. Services revenue consists of professional services and maintenance arrangements, including PCS, software as a service (“SaaS”), and other professional services. PCS services are offered under renewable, annual fee-based contracts or as part of multiple-element arrangements, and typically include telephone support, upgrades and enhancements to the Company’s operating system software, software updates on an “if and when available” basis, advance replacement for various defective devices and components including power supplies, fans, switches, access points and controllers, telephone and internet access to technical support personnel, and other hardware support. Revenue related to PCS elements is deferred and recognized ratably over the contractual period. PCS contracts are typically one to five years in length.

Professional services are offered under hourly or fixed fee-based contracts. Professional services revenue is typically recognized as services are performed.

Warranty Expense, Policy

Warranty Expense

The Company provides standard warranties on its products ranging from one year to limited lifetime warranties. Estimated future warranty costs are accrued at the time of shipment and charged to cost of revenues based upon historical experience, current trends in warranty claims, and the Company’s expectations regarding future experience.

Foreign Currency, Policy

Foreign Currency

Assets and liabilities of the Company’s international subsidiaries in which the local currency is the functional currency are translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates. Income and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are included in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets in the stockholders’ equity section as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Foreign exchange gains and losses for assets and liabilities of the Company’s international subsidiaries in which the functional currency is the U.S. dollar are recorded in the Company’s Consolidated Statement of Income.

Software to be Sold, Leased, or Otherwise Marketed, Policy

Eligible development costs for software to be sold are capitalized upon the establishment of technological feasibility, which is defined as being equivalent to completion of a beta-phase working prototype. Total eligible software development costs have not been material to date.

Internal Use Software, Policy

Eligible costs related to internal development or purchase of software for internal use are capitalized and included in “Property and equipment, net.” These costs are amortized over the estimated useful lives of four to seven years based on the nature of the software purchased or developed. Ongoing software development costs on the Company’s Oracle R12 customization project and the Long-Term Evolution (“LTE”) Small Cell Cloud Controller are recorded in construction-in-progress accounts until completed. These costs are eligible for capitalization in accordance with ASC 350-40, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software, and will be amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life.

Advertising Costs, Policy

Advertising Costs

The Company expenses all advertising costs as incurred. Advertising costs were $11.3 million, $13.6 million, and $17.6 million for the fiscal years ended October 29, 2016, October 31, 2015, and November 1, 2014, respectively.

During the fiscal year ended October 27, 2012, the Company entered into a multi-year arrangement which includes exchanging certain of the Company’s products and services, with an estimated overall fair value of $16.6 million, for advertising. The Company is accounting for this transaction based on fair values of products and services surrendered and accordingly recognized $1.1 million, $1.1 million, and $2.4 million of related gross operating revenue for the fiscal years ended October 29, 2016, October 31, 2015, and November 1, 2014, respectively. In addition, $4.0 million of the advertising costs for the fiscal year ended October 29, 2016, were incurred in connection with this multi-year arrangement, and a related advertising expense prepayment is currently recorded within “Prepaid expenses and other current assets” and “Other assets.”

Income Taxes, Policy

Income Taxes

The Company recognizes income tax expense for the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts, along with net operating loss carryforwards and credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is recognized to the extent that it is more likely than not that the tax benefits will not be realized.

The Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes using a two-step approach to recognizing and measuring uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. The Company classifies the liability for unrecognized tax benefits as current to the extent that the Company anticipates payment (or receipt) of cash within one year. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized in the provision for income taxes. For additional discussion, see Note 14, “Income Taxes,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Computation of Net Income (Loss) per Share, Policy

Computation of Net Income per Share

Basic net income per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period, less shares subject to repurchase. Diluted net income per share is computed using the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding and potentially dilutive common shares outstanding during the period that have a dilutive effect on earnings per share. Potentially dilutive common shares result from the assumed exercise of outstanding stock options, assumed vesting of outstanding restricted stock units (“RSUs”), assumed issuance of stock under the employee stock purchase plan, and assumed conversion of outstanding convertible senior unsecured notes and exercise of related warrant transactions, all using the treasury stock method.

Stock-Based Compensation, Policy

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company accounts for employee equity awards under the fair value method. Accordingly, the Company measures stock-based compensation at the grant date based on the fair value of the award. The fair values of stock options and the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) are estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Estimated compensation cost relating to time-based RSUs granted prior to the initial declaration of a quarterly cash dividend on May 22, 2014, is based on the fair value of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant because Brocade did not historically pay cash dividends on its common stock. For time-based RSUs granted on or subsequent to May 22, 2014, the fair value of RSUs is measured based on the grant-date share price, less the present value of expected dividends during the vesting period, discounted at a risk-free interest rate. The fair value of restricted stock units with market conditions (“MSUs”) is estimated using a lattice model that incorporates a Monte Carlo simulation. The Company records stock-based compensation expense over the 24-month offering period in connection with shares issued under its ESPP. The compensation expense for stock-based awards is reduced by an estimate for forfeitures and is recognized over the vesting period of the award under a graded vesting method, except for RSUs granted by the Company, which is recognized over the expected term of the award under a straight-line vesting method. For additional discussion, see Note 12, “Stock-Based Compensation,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company accounts for the tax effects of share-based payment awards using the alternative transition method, which includes simplified methods to establish the beginning balance of the additional paid-in capital pool (“APIC Pool”) related to the tax effects of employee stock-based compensation and to determine the subsequent impact on the APIC Pool and consolidated statement of cash flows of the tax effects of employee stock-based compensation awards.

Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities

The Company uses a qualitative approach in assessing the consolidation requirement for variable interest entities. The approach focuses on identifying which enterprise has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the variable interest entity’s economic performance and which enterprise has the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits from the variable interest entity. If the Company is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity, the assets, liabilities, and results of operations of the variable interest entity are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements or Updates Recently Adopted or That Are Not Yet Effective, Policy

New Accounting Pronouncements or Updates Recently Adopted

In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued an update to ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, and ASC 360, Property, Plant, and Equipment: Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. Under this update, a discontinued operation may include a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity, a business, or nonprofit activity. Only those disposals of components of an entity that represent a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results will be reported as discontinued operations in the financial statements. This update should be applied prospectively. The Company adopted this update in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016. There was no material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

In April 2015, the FASB issued an update to ASC 835, Interest—Imputation of Interest: Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. Under this update, debt issuance costs are required to be presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related debt liability, consistent with the presentation of debt discounts. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by this update. This update should be applied retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company adopted this update in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016. There was no material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

In September 2015, the FASB issued an update to ASC 805, Business Combinations: Simplifying the Accounting Measurement-Period Adjustments. This update simplifies the accounting for adjustments made to provisional amounts recognized in a business combination by eliminating the requirement to retrospectively account for those adjustments. Under this update, the adjustments are recognized in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. This update should be applied prospectively. The Company adopted this update in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016. There was no material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

In November 2015, the FASB issued an update to ASC 740, Income Taxes: Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes. This update simplifies the presentation of current and non-current deferred tax liabilities and assets. Under this update, the deferred tax liabilities and assets are classified as non-current on the balance sheet. The update does not impact the current requirement that deferred tax liabilities and assets be offset and presented as a single amount. This update may be applied either prospectively or retrospectively. The Company adopted this update in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016 and has elected to apply this update prospectively. There was no material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements or Updates That Are Not Yet Effective

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, that will supersede virtually all existing revenue guidance. Under this new revenue guidance, an entity is required to recognize revenue upon transfer of promised goods or services to customers, in an amount that reflects the expected consideration received in exchange for those goods or services. As such, an entity will need to use more judgment and make more estimates than under the current guidance. This new revenue guidance should be applied retrospectively either to each prior reporting period presented in the financial statements, or only to the most current reporting period presented in the financial statements with a cumulative effect adjustment recorded in retained earnings. In August 2015, the FASB issued an update to defer the effective date of this new revenue guidance by one year. This new revenue guidance becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Early adoption is not permitted for reporting periods before the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new revenue guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net), which clarifies the implementation guidance for principal versus agent considerations. In April 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing, which clarifies the guidance related to identifying performance obligations and accounting for licenses of intellectual property. In May 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers: Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients, which clarifies the guidance related to collectibility and non-cash consideration, as well as provides practical expedients for the transition to ASC 606. The Company must adopt these updates with the adoption of ASC 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of these updates on its consolidated financial statements.

In April 2015, the FASB issued an update to ASC 350, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal-Use Software: Customer’s Accounting for Fees Paid in Cloud Computing Arrangement. This update provides guidance on the accounting for fees paid in a cloud computing arrangement if the arrangement was determined to include a software license. This update will not change U.S. GAAP for a customer’s accounting for service contracts. This update may be applied either prospectively or retrospectively and becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2017. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of this update to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In July 2015, the FASB issued an update to ASC 330, Inventory: Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. Under this update, subsequent measurement of inventory is based on the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated cost of completion and disposal. This update does not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in, first-out or the retail inventory method. This update should be applied prospectively and becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect the adoption of this update to have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 825, Financial Instruments—Overall: Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. This update consists of eight provisions that provide guidance on the accounting for equity investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option, and the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. This update should be applied by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption and prospectively for equity investments without readily determinable fair values. This update becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Early adoption is permitted for two of the eight provisions. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASC 842, Leases, that will supersede the existing lease guidance, including on-balance sheet recognition of operating leases for lessees. This new lease guidance should be applied using a modified retrospective approach and becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2020. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this new lease guidance on its consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation: Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. This update simplifies certain aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including income taxes, forfeiture rates, classification of awards, and classification in the statement of cash flows. This update becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASC 326, Financial Instrument—Credit Losses, that will supersede the existing methodology for estimating expected credit losses on certain financial instruments. The new impairment methodology eliminates the probable initial recognition threshold and, instead, estimates the expected credit losses in consideration of past events, current conditions, and forecasted information. This update becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2021. Early adoption is permitted in the first quarter of fiscal year 2020. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements.

In August 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 230, Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. This update consists of eight provisions that provide guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments. If practicable, this update should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. For the provisions that are impracticable to apply retrospectively, those provisions may be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable. This update becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In October 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 740, Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory. This update requires the recognition of current and deferred income taxes for intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. This update should be applied using a modified retrospective approach and becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements.

In November 2016, the FASB issued an update to ASC 230, Statement of Cash Flows: Restricted Cash. This update requires that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. This update should be applied using a retrospective transition method and becomes effective in the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Early adoption is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of this update on its consolidated financial statements.