Note 10. Intangible Assets (Detail) - Identifiable Intangible Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 30, 2012	Aug. 31, 2012
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 96,650	$ 95,765
Accumulated Amortization	54,796	52,394
Net Carrying Amount	41,854	43,371
Data Content [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	49,748	49,120
Accumulated Amortization	19,743	18,521
Net Carrying Amount	30,005	30,599
Client Relationships [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	22,993	22,841
Accumulated Amortization	14,778	14,089
Net Carrying Amount	8,215	8,752
Software Technology [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	20,997	20,892
Accumulated Amortization	18,798	18,482
Net Carrying Amount	2,199	2,410
Non-Compete Agreements [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	2,154	2,154
Accumulated Amortization	930	810
Net Carrying Amount	1,224	1,344
Trade Names [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	758	758
Accumulated Amortization	547	492
Net Carrying Amount	$ 211	$ 266