Note 9. Intangible Assets (Detail) - Identifiable Intangible Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2011	Aug. 31, 2011
Net Carrying Amount	$ 43,077	$ 46,310
Data Content [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	50,614	52,438
Accumulated Amortization	17,318	16,849
Net Carrying Amount	33,297	35,589
Client Relationships [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	20,665	21,088
Accumulated Amortization	12,978	12,782
Net Carrying Amount	7,687	8,306
Software Technology [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	18,795	19,093
Accumulated Amortization	18,119	18,222
Net Carrying Amount	676	871
Non-Compete Agreements [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	1,750	1,750
Accumulated Amortization	525	437
Net Carrying Amount	1,225	1,313
Trade Names [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	572	572
Accumulated Amortization	379	341
Net Carrying Amount	192	231
Total [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	92,396	94,941
Accumulated Amortization	49,319	48,631
Net Carrying Amount	$ 43,077	$ 46,310