Note 8 . Goodwill (Detail) - Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by segment (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2011
Balance at August 31, 2011	$ 228,265
Balance at November 30, 2011	224,776
Goodwill acquired during the period	0
Foreign currency translations	(3,489)
United States [Member]
Balance at August 31, 2011	145,826
Balance at November 30, 2011	145,826
Goodwill acquired during the period	0
Foreign currency translations	0
Europe [Member]
Balance at August 31, 2011	78,172
Balance at November 30, 2011	74,746
Goodwill acquired during the period	0
Foreign currency translations	(3,426)
Asia Pacific [Member]
Balance at August 31, 2011	4,267
Balance at November 30, 2011	4,204
Goodwill acquired during the period	0
Foreign currency translations	$ (63)