Business Description and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Business Description and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Business Description and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies The terms “Cognizant,” “we,” “our,” “us” and “the Company” refer to Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation and its subsidiaries unless the context indicates otherwise. Description of Business. We are one of the world’s leading professional services companies, transforming customers’ business, operating and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps customers envision, build and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Our core competencies include: business, process, operations and technology consulting, digital services, application development and systems integration, enterprise information management, application testing, application maintenance, information technology, or IT, infrastructure services, and business process services. We tailor our services to specific industries and utilize an integrated global delivery model with customer service teams typically based on-site at the customer locations and delivery teams located at dedicated global delivery centers. Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, or GAAP, and reflect the consolidated financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows of our consolidated subsidiaries for all periods presented. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Equity investments through which we are able to exercise significant influence over but do not control the investee and are not the primary beneficiary of the investee’s activities are accounted for using the equity method. Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investments. Cash and cash equivalents consist of all cash balances, including money market funds and liquid instruments. Liquid instruments are classified as cash equivalents when their maturities at the date of purchase are 90 days or less and as short-term investments when their maturities at the date of purchase are greater than 90 days. We determine the appropriate classification of our investments in marketable securities at the date of purchase and reevaluate such designation at each balance sheet date. We have classified and accounted for our marketable securities as either trading, available-for-sale or held-to-maturity. After consideration of our risk versus reward objectives, as well as our liquidity requirements, we may sell our trading and available-for-sale securities prior to their stated maturities. We classify these marketable securities with maturities at the date of purchase beyond 90 days as short-term investments based on their highly liquid nature and because such marketable securities represent an investment of cash that is available for current operations. Our held-to-maturity investment securities are financial instruments for which we have the intent and ability to hold to maturity and we classify these securities with maturities beyond 90 days but less than one year as short-term investments. Any held-to-maturity investment securities with maturities beyond one year would be classified as noncurrent. Trading securities are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses recorded in Other income (expense), net in our consolidated statements of operations. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. We determine the cost of the securities sold based on the specific identification method. Held-to-maturity securities are reported at amortized cost. Time deposits with financial institutions are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Interest and amortization of premiums and discounts for debt securities are included in interest income. On a quarterly basis, we evaluate our available-for-sale and held-to-maturity investments for possible other-than-temporary impairment by reviewing factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer, whether we intend to sell the security and whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded to income and a new cost basis in the investment is established. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined by evaluating the relative credit-worthiness of each customer, historical collections experience and other information, including the aging of the receivables. We evaluate the collectibility of our accounts receivable on an on-going basis and write-off accounts when they are deemed to be uncollectible. Unbilled Accounts Receivable. Unbilled accounts receivable represent revenues recognized on contracts to be billed, in subsequent periods, as per the terms of the related contracts. Short-term Financial Assets and Liabilities. Cash and certain cash equivalents, trade receivables, accounts payable and other accrued liabilities are short-term in nature and, accordingly, their carrying values approximate fair value. Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the term of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement. In India, leasehold land is leased by us from the government of India with lease terms ranging up to 99 years. Lease payments are made at the inception of the lease agreement and amortized over the lease term. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred, while renewals and betterments are capitalized. Deposits paid towards acquisition of long-lived assets and the cost of assets not put in use before the balance sheet date are disclosed under the caption “Capital work-in-progress” in Note 5. Internal Use Software. We capitalize certain costs that are incurred to purchase, develop and implement internal-use software during the application development phase, which primarily include coding, testing and certain data conversion activities. Capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the software. Costs incurred in performing activities associated with the preliminary project phase and the post-implementation phase are expensed as incurred. Business Combinations. We account for business combinations using the acquisition method, which requires the identification of the acquirer, the determination of the acquisition date and the allocation of the purchase price paid by the acquirer to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, including any contingent consideration and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives. Acquisition-related costs are expensed in the periods in which the costs are incurred. The results of operations of acquired businesses are included in our consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date. Equity Method Investments. Equity investments that give us the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over an investee are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Equity method investments are initially recorded at cost and any excess cost over our proportionate share of the fair value of the net assets of the investee at the acquisition date is recognized as goodwill and included in the carrying amount of the investment. We periodically review the carrying value of our equity method investments to determine if there has been an other-than-temporary decline in carrying value. The Company's proportionate share of the net income or loss of the investee is recorded in the caption "Income from equity method investment" on our consolidated statements of operations. The investment balance is increased or decreased for cash contributions and distributions to or from these investees. In the circumstance we obtain control of the investee, the existing carrying value of the investment is remeasured to the fair value on the change of control date and any gain or loss is recognized in results of operations. Cost Method Investments. Equity investments without readily determinable fair values in which we do not exercise significant influence or control are accounted for using the cost method of accounting and recorded in the caption "Equity and cost method investments" on our consolidated statement of financial position. Investments are carried at cost and are adjusted only for other-than-temporary declines in fair value, certain distributions and additional investments. We periodically review the carrying value of our cost method investments to determine if there has been an other-than-temporary decline in carrying value. Long-lived Assets and Finite-lived Intangibles. We review long-lived assets and certain finite-lived identifiable intangibles for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We recognize an impairment loss when the sum of undiscounted expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of such assets. The impairment loss is determined as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Intangible assets consist primarily of customer relationships and developed technology, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangibles. We evaluate goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually, or as circumstances warrant. Goodwill is evaluated at the reporting unit level by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. For indefinite-lived intangible assets, if our annual qualitative assessment indicates possible impairment, we test the assets for impairment by comparing the fair value of such assets to their carrying value. In determining the fair value, we utilize various estimates and assumptions, including discount rates and projections of future cash flows. If an impairment is indicated, a write down to the implied fair value of goodwill or fair value of indefinite-lived intangible asset is recorded. Stock Repurchase Program. Through December 2016, our Board of Directors had authorized the repurchase of $3,000 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock, excluding fees and expenses ("Existing Stock Repurchase Program"). In February 2017, the Board of Directors approved the termination of the Existing Stock Repurchase Program and approved a new stock repurchase program ("New Stock Repurchase Program"), both actions to take effect on the date of filing of our Annual Report on this Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The New Stock Repurchase Program allows for the repurchase of $3,500 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock, excluding fees and expenses, through December 31, 2019. During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we repurchased 8 million, 6 million and 4 million shares respectively, at an aggregate cost of $440 million, $376 million and $188 million, respectively under the Existing Stock Repurchase Program. Additional stock repurchases were made in connection with our stock-based compensation plans, whereby Company shares were tendered by employees for payment of applicable statutory tax withholdings. During 2016, 2015 and 2014, such repurchases totaled 1 million in each of the years, at an aggregate cost of $72 million, $84 million and $60 million, respectively. We account for the repurchases as constructively retired. At the time of repurchase, shares are returned to the status of authorized and unissued shares. To reflect share repurchases in the consolidated statement of financial position, the Company (i) reduces common stock for the par value of the shares, (ii) reduces additional paid-in capital for the amount in excess of par during the period in which the shares are repurchased and (iii) records any residual amount in excess of available additional paid-in capital to retained earnings. Revenue Recognition. Revenues related to time-and-materials contracts are recognized as the service is performed and amounts are earned. Revenues from transaction-priced contracts are recognized as transactions are processed and amounts are earned. Revenues related to fixed-price contracts for highly complex application development and systems integration services are recognized as the service is performed using the percentage of completion method of accounting, under which the total value of revenues is recognized on the basis of the percentage that each contract’s total labor cost to date bears to the total expected labor costs (cost to cost method). Revenues related to fixed-price outsourcing services are recognized on a straight-line basis unless revenues are earned and obligations are fulfilled in a different pattern. Revenues related to fixed-price contracts for consulting or other technology services are recognized as services are performed on a proportional performance basis based upon the level of effort. For all services, revenues are earned and recognized only when all of the following criteria are met: evidence of an arrangement exists, the price is fixed or determinable, the services have been rendered and collectibility is reasonably assured. Contingent or incentive revenues are recognized when the contingency is satisfied and we conclude the amounts are earned. Volume discounts are recorded as a reduction of revenues as services are provided. Revenues also include the reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses. Costs to deliver services are expensed as incurred with the exception of specific costs directly related to transition or set-up activities for outsourcing contracts. Transition costs are deferred and expensed ratably over the period of service. Deferred amounts are protected by collected cash or early termination penalty clauses and are monitored regularly for impairment. Impairment losses are recorded when projected remaining undiscounted operating cash flows of the related contract are not sufficient to recover the carrying amount of the contract assets. Deferred transition costs were approximately $188 million and $137 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and are included in other noncurrent assets in our consolidated statements of financial position. Costs related to warranty provisions are accrued at the time the related revenues are recorded. We may enter into arrangements that consist of multiple elements. Such arrangements may include any combination of our products, solutions and services. For arrangements with multiple deliverables, we evaluate at the inception of each new arrangement all deliverables to determine whether they represent separate units of accounting. For arrangements with multiple units of accounting, other than arrangements that contain software licenses and software-related services, we allocate consideration among the units of accounting, where separable, based on their relative selling price. Relative selling price is determined based on vendor-specific objective evidence, or VSOE, if it exists. Otherwise, third-party evidence of selling price is used, when it is available, and in circumstances when neither VSOE nor third-party evidence of selling price is available, management’s best estimate of selling price is used. Revenues are recognized for each unit of accounting based on our revenue recognition policy described above. Fixed-price contracts are generally cancelable subject to a specified notice period. All services provided by us through the date of cancellation are due and payable under the contract terms. We issue invoices related to fixed-price contracts based upon achievement of milestones during a project or other contractual terms. Differences between the timing of billing, based on contract milestones or other contractual terms, and the recognition of revenues are recognized as either unbilled receivables or deferred revenue. Estimates of certain fixed-price contracts are subject to adjustment as a project progresses to reflect changes in expected completion costs or efforts. The cumulative impact of any revision in estimates is reflected in the financial reporting period in which the change in estimate becomes known and any anticipated losses on contracts are recognized immediately. We also generate product revenues from licensing our software. For perpetual software license arrangements that do not require significant modification or customization of the underlying software, revenues are recognized when the software is delivered and all other software revenue recognition criteria are met. For software license arrangements that require significant functionality enhancements or modification of the software, revenues for the software license and those services are recognized as those services are performed. For software license arrangements that include a right to use the product for a defined period of time, we recognize revenues ratably over the term of the license. We may enter into arrangements with customers that purchase both software licenses and software-related services from us at the same time, or within close proximity of one another (referred to as software-related multiple-element arrangements). Such software related multiple-element arrangements may include software licenses, software license updates, product support contracts and other software-related services. For those software related multiple-element arrangements, we apply the residual method to determine the amount of software license revenues. Under the residual method, if VSOE of fair value exists for undelivered elements in a multiple-element arrangement, revenues equal to the fair value of the undelivered elements are deferred with the remaining portion of the arrangement consideration generally recognized upon delivery of the software license. For arrangements in which VSOE of fair value does not exist for each software-related undelivered element, revenues for the software license are deferred and not recognized until VSOE of fair value is available for the undelivered element or delivery of each element has occurred. If the only undelivered element is a service, revenues from the delivered element are recognized over the service period. We also enter into multiple-element arrangements that may include a combination of software licenses and various software-related and non-software-related services. In such arrangements, we first allocate the total arrangement consideration, based on relative selling prices, between the software group of elements and the non-software group of elements. We then further allocate consideration within the software group to the respective elements within that group following the software-related multiple-element arrangements policies described above. For the non-software group of elements, we further allocate consideration to the respective elements based on relative selling prices. After the arrangement consideration has been allocated to the individual elements, we account for each respective element in the arrangement as described above. Stock-Based Compensation. Stock-based compensation expense for awards of equity instruments to employees and non-employee directors is determined based on the grant-date fair value of those awards. We recognize these compensation costs net of an estimated forfeiture rate over the requisite service period of the award. Forfeitures are estimated on the date of grant and revised if actual or expected forfeiture activity differs materially from original estimates. Foreign Currency. The assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars from local currencies at current exchange rates and revenues and expenses are translated from local currencies at average monthly exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position. Foreign currency transactions and balances are those that are denominated in a currency other than the subsidiary’s functional currency. The U.S. dollar is the functional currency for certain foreign subsidiaries who conduct business predominantly in U.S. dollars. For these subsidiaries, transactions and balances denominated in the local currency are foreign currency transactions. Foreign currency transactions and balances related to non-monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured to the functional currency of the subsidiary at historical exchange rates while monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured to the functional currency of the subsidiary at current exchange rates. Foreign currency exchange gains or losses from remeasurement are included in the "Foreign currency exchange gain (losses), net" line on our consolidated statement of operations together with gains or losses on our undesignated foreign currency hedges. Derivative Financial Instruments. Derivative financial instruments are recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value as of the reporting date. Our derivative financial instruments consist of foreign exchange forward contracts. For derivative financial instruments to qualify for hedge accounting, the following criteria must be met: (1) the hedging instrument must be designated as a hedge; (2) the hedged exposure must be specifically identifiable and must expose us to risk; and (3) it is expected that a change in fair value of the derivative financial instrument and an opposite change in the fair value of the hedged exposure will have a high degree of correlation. The authoritative guidance requires that changes in our derivatives’ fair values be recognized in income unless specific hedge accounting and documentation criteria are met (i.e., the instruments are designated and accounted for as hedges). We record the effective portion of the unrealized gains and losses on our derivative financial instruments that are designated as cash flow hedges in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position. Any ineffectiveness or excluded portion of a designated cash flow hedge is recognized in income. Upon occurrence of the hedged transaction, the gains and losses on the derivative are recognized in income. Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, including the recoverability of tangible and intangible assets, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. The most significant estimates relate to the recognition of revenues and profits based on the percentage of completion method of accounting for certain fixed-price contracts, the allowance for doubtful accounts, income taxes, assumptions used in valuing stock-based compensation arrangements, valuation of derivative financial instruments and investments, business combinations, intangible assets and other long-lived assets, valuation of goodwill, contingencies and litigation. We evaluate our estimates on a continuous basis. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The actual amounts may vary from the estimates used in the preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements. Risks and Uncertainties. The majority of our global delivery centers and employees are located in India. As a result, we may be subject to certain risks associated with international operations, including risks associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, risks associated with the application and imposition of protective legislation, immigration laws and regulations relating to import and export or otherwise resulting from foreign policy or the variability of foreign economic or political conditions. Additional risks associated with international operations include difficulties in enforcing intellectual property rights, the burdens of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws, potential geo-political risks, risks associated with terrorist activities and local or cross border conflicts and potentially adverse tax consequences, tariffs, quotas and other barriers. Concentration of Credit Risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, time deposits, investments in securities, derivative financial instruments and billed and unbilled accounts receivable. We maintain our cash and cash equivalents, investments and derivative financial instruments with high credit quality financial institutions, invest in investment-grade debt securities and limit the amount of credit exposure to any one commercial issuer. Our accounts receivable are dispersed across many customers operating in different industries; therefore, concentration of credit risk is limited. Income Taxes. We provide for income taxes utilizing the asset and liability method of accounting. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recorded to reflect the tax consequences in future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each balance sheet date, based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that future tax benefits associated with a deferred income tax asset will not be realized, a valuation allowance is provided. The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities of a change in the tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Tax benefits earned on employee stock awards in excess of recorded stock-based compensation expense are credited to additional paid-in capital. Our provision for income taxes also includes the impact of provisions established for uncertain income tax positions, as well as the related interest. Earnings Per Share, or EPS. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS includes all potential dilutive common stock in the weighted average shares outstanding. For purposes of computing diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, 3 million, 4 million and 5 million shares were assumed to have been outstanding related to common share equivalents. We exclude from the calculation of diluted EPS options with exercise prices that are greater than the average market price and shares related to stock-based awards whose combined exercise price, unamortized fair value and excess tax benefits were greater in each of those periods than the average market price of our common stock for the period, because their effect would be anti-dilutive. We excluded less than 1 million of anti-dilutive shares in each of 2016, 2015 and 2014 from our diluted EPS calculation. We include performance stock unit awards in the dilutive potential common shares when they become contingently issuable per the authoritative guidance and exclude the awards when they are not contingently issuable. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements. In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued an update related to the presentation of debt issuance costs. The update requires debt issuance costs, other than costs incurred to secure lines of credit, be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying value of that debt liability. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by this update. The guidance is effective on a retrospective basis for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2016. Thus, we have adopted this guidance as of January 1, 2016. We conformed prior period's presentation to current period's presentation on our consolidated statement of financial position. The adoption of this standard impacted financial statement presentation only and had no effect on our financial condition or results of operations. In April 2015, the FASB issued an update to the standard on internal-use software providing guidance to customers in evaluating whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the updated standard requires the customer to account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer is required to account for the arrangement as a service contract. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2016. A company can elect to adopt the update either prospectively to all arrangements entered into or materially modified after the effective date or retrospectively. We have adopted this update prospectively beginning January 1, 2016. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations. New Accounting Pronouncements. In May 2014, the FASB issued a standard on revenue from contracts with customers. In 2016, the FASB issued five amendments to the new standard. The new standard, as amended, sets forth a single comprehensive model for recognizing and reporting revenues. The standard also requires additional financial statement disclosures that will enable users to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows relating to customer contracts. The standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted but not before periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. We do not intend to adopt early. The standard allows for two methods of adoption: the full retrospective adoption, which requires the standard to be applied to each prior period presented, or the modified retrospective adoption, which requires the cumulative effect of adoption to be recognized as an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption. While we are currently evaluating the effect the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures, we currently believe the most significant impacts relate to changes in the method used to measure progress on our fixed-price contracts, capitalization and amortization of costs to acquire and fulfill a contract, as well as the timing of revenue recognition on our software license contracts. Due to the complexity of certain of our contracts, the actual revenue recognition treatment required under the standard will be dependent on contract-specific terms. In January 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on financial instruments. The update significantly revises an entity’s accounting related to (1) the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and (2) the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. It also amends certain disclosure requirements. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Upon adoption, entities will be required to make a cumulative-effect adjustment to the statement of financial position as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. However, the specific guidance on equity securities without readily determinable fair value will apply prospectively to all equity investments that exist as of the date of adoption. Early adoption of certain sections of this update is permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect the update will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued a standard on lease accounting. The new standard replaces the existing guidance on leases and requires the lessee to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with lease terms equal to or greater than twelve months. For finance leases, the lessee would recognize interest expense and amortization of the right-of-use asset, and for operating leases, the lessee would recognize total lease expense on a straight-line basis. This standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Upon adoption, entities will be required to use a modified retrospective transition which provides for certain practical expedients. Entities are required to apply the new standard at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented. Early adoption of this new standard is permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. We expect the requirement to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for operating leases to have a material impact on the presentation of our consolidated statements of financial position. In March 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on derivatives and hedging, which clarifies the effect of derivative contract novations on existing hedge accounting relationships. As it relates to derivative instruments, novation refers to replacing one of the parties to a derivative instrument with a new party, which may occur for a variety of reasons such as: financial institution mergers, intercompany transactions, an entity exiting a particular derivatives business or relationship, or because of laws or regulatory requirements. The update clarifies that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument does not, in and of itself, require dedesignation of that hedge accounting relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2017. Upon adoption, entities can choose to apply the update on either a prospective basis or a modified retrospective basis. We do not expect the adoption of this amendment to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. In March 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on stock compensation, which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions including the accounting for excess tax benefits and deficiencies, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2017. Upon adoption, entities will be required to apply a modified retrospective, prospective or retrospective transition method depending on the specific section of the guidance being adopted. We expect the requirements to recognize excess tax benefits and deficiencies on stock awards in the income tax provision and to present the excess tax benefits and deficiencies in operating activities in the statement of cash flows to be the primary effects of this standard on our consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on financial instruments, which amends the guidance on the impairment of financial instruments. The update changes the methodology for measuring credit losses on financial instruments and the timing of when such losses are recorded by introducing an approach based on expected losses. The estimate of expected credit losses will require entities to incorporate considerations of historical information, current information and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2021. Early adoption is permitted beginning on or after January 1, 2020. Upon adoption, entities will be required to use a modified retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. In August 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on the statement of cash flows, which clarifies the presentation and classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments. The update addresses specific cash flow issues, including debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, and distributions received from equity method investees. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period, provided that all of the updates are adopted in the same period. Upon adoption, entities will be required to use a retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. The adoption of this guidance will affect financial statement presentation only and will have no effect on our financial position or results of operations. In October 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on income taxes, which requires the recognition of current and deferred income taxes when an intra-entity transfer of assets other than inventory occurs. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. Upon adoption, the entities will be required to use a modified retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued an update to the standard on business combinations, which clarifies the definition of a business. The update requires a business to include at least an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs. The update also states that the definition of a business is not met if substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after January 1, 2018. Upon adoption, entities will be required to apply the update prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued an update to the standard on goodwill, which eliminates the need to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill when an impairment is indicated. The update states that goodwill impairment is measured as the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying value over its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after January 1, 2020. Early adoption is permitted for any impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. Upon adoption, entities will be required to apply the update prospectively. We do not expect the adoption of this amendment to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

Business Description and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The terms “Cognizant,” “we,” “our,” “us” and “the Company” refer to Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation and its subsidiaries unless the context indicates otherwise.

Description of Business. We are one of the world’s leading professional services companies, transforming customers’ business, operating and technology models for the digital era. Our unique industry-based, consultative approach helps customers envision, build and run more innovative and efficient businesses. Our core competencies include: business, process, operations and technology consulting, digital services, application development and systems integration, enterprise information management, application testing, application maintenance, information technology, or IT, infrastructure services, and business process services. We tailor our services to specific industries and utilize an integrated global delivery model with customer service teams typically based on-site at the customer locations and delivery teams located at dedicated global delivery centers.

Basis of Presentation and Principles of Consolidation. The consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, or GAAP, and reflect the consolidated financial position, results of operations, comprehensive income and cash flows of our consolidated subsidiaries for all periods presented. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Equity investments through which we are able to exercise significant influence over but do not control the investee and are not the primary beneficiary of the investee’s activities are accounted for using the equity method.

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investments. Cash and cash equivalents consist of all cash balances, including money market funds and liquid instruments. Liquid instruments are classified as cash equivalents when their maturities at the date of purchase are 90 days or less and as short-term investments when their maturities at the date of purchase are greater than 90 days.

We determine the appropriate classification of our investments in marketable securities at the date of purchase and reevaluate such designation at each balance sheet date. We have classified and accounted for our marketable securities as either trading, available-for-sale or held-to-maturity. After consideration of our risk versus reward objectives, as well as our liquidity requirements, we may sell our trading and available-for-sale securities prior to their stated maturities. We classify these marketable securities with maturities at the date of purchase beyond 90 days as short-term investments based on their highly liquid nature and because such marketable securities represent an investment of cash that is available for current operations. Our held-to-maturity investment securities are financial instruments for which we have the intent and ability to hold to maturity and we classify these securities with maturities beyond 90 days but less than one year as short-term investments. Any held-to-maturity investment securities with maturities beyond one year would be classified as noncurrent.

Trading securities are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses recorded in Other income (expense), net in our consolidated statements of operations. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value with changes in unrealized gains and losses recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. We determine the cost of the securities sold based on the specific identification method. Held-to-maturity securities are reported at amortized cost. Time deposits with financial institutions are valued at cost, which approximates fair value.

Interest and amortization of premiums and discounts for debt securities are included in interest income. On a quarterly basis, we evaluate our available-for-sale and held-to-maturity investments for possible other-than-temporary impairment by reviewing factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis, the financial condition of the issuer, whether we intend to sell the security and whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security prior to recovery of its amortized cost basis. Once a decline in fair value is determined to be other-than-temporary, an impairment charge is recorded to income and a new cost basis in the investment is established.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined by evaluating the relative credit-worthiness of each customer, historical collections experience and other information, including the aging of the receivables. We evaluate the collectibility of our accounts receivable on an on-going basis and write-off accounts when they are deemed to be uncollectible.

Unbilled Accounts Receivable. Unbilled accounts receivable represent revenues recognized on contracts to be billed, in subsequent periods, as per the terms of the related contracts.

Short-term Financial Assets and Liabilities. Cash and certain cash equivalents, trade receivables, accounts payable and other accrued liabilities are short-term in nature and, accordingly, their carrying values approximate fair value.

Property and Equipment. Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the term of the lease or the estimated useful life of the improvement. In India, leasehold land is leased by us from the government of India with lease terms ranging up to 99 years. Lease payments are made at the inception of the lease agreement and amortized over the lease term. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred, while renewals and betterments are capitalized. Deposits paid towards acquisition of long-lived assets and the cost of assets not put in use before the balance sheet date are disclosed under the caption “Capital work-in-progress” in Note 5.

Internal Use Software. We capitalize certain costs that are incurred to purchase, develop and implement internal-use software during the application development phase, which primarily include coding, testing and certain data conversion activities. Capitalized costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the software. Costs incurred in performing activities associated with the preliminary project phase and the post-implementation phase are expensed as incurred.

Business Combinations. We account for business combinations using the acquisition method, which requires the identification of the acquirer, the determination of the acquisition date and the allocation of the purchase price paid by the acquirer to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, including any contingent consideration and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at their acquisition date fair values. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired, including the amount assigned to identifiable intangible assets. Identifiable intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their useful lives. Acquisition-related costs are expensed in the periods in which the costs are incurred. The results of operations of acquired businesses are included in our consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date.

Equity Method Investments. Equity investments that give us the ability to exercise significant influence, but not control, over an investee are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Equity method investments are initially recorded at cost and any excess cost over our proportionate share of the fair value of the net assets of the investee at the acquisition date is recognized as goodwill and included in the carrying amount of the investment. We periodically review the carrying value of our equity method investments to determine if there has been an other-than-temporary decline in carrying value. The Company's proportionate share of the net income or loss of the investee is recorded in the caption "Income from equity method investment" on our consolidated statements of operations. The investment balance is increased or decreased for cash contributions and distributions to or from these investees. In the circumstance we obtain control of the investee, the existing carrying value of the investment is remeasured to the fair value on the change of control date and any gain or loss is recognized in results of operations.

Cost Method Investments. Equity investments without readily determinable fair values in which we do not exercise significant influence or control are accounted for using the cost method of accounting and recorded in the caption "Equity and cost method investments" on our consolidated statement of financial position. Investments are carried at cost and are adjusted only for other-than-temporary declines in fair value, certain distributions and additional investments. We periodically review the carrying value of our cost method investments to determine if there has been an other-than-temporary decline in carrying value.

Long-lived Assets and Finite-lived Intangibles. We review long-lived assets and certain finite-lived identifiable intangibles for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. We recognize an impairment loss when the sum of undiscounted expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of such assets. The impairment loss is determined as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset. Intangible assets consist primarily of customer relationships and developed technology, which are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangibles. We evaluate goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at least annually, or as circumstances warrant. Goodwill is evaluated at the reporting unit level by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount. For indefinite-lived intangible assets, if our annual qualitative assessment indicates possible impairment, we test the assets for impairment by comparing the fair value of such assets to their carrying value. In determining the fair value, we utilize various estimates and assumptions, including discount rates and projections of future cash flows. If an impairment is indicated, a write down to the implied fair value of goodwill or fair value of indefinite-lived intangible asset is recorded.

Stock Repurchase Program. Through December 2016, our Board of Directors had authorized the repurchase of $3,000 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock, excluding fees and expenses ("Existing Stock Repurchase Program"). In February 2017, the Board of Directors approved the termination of the Existing Stock Repurchase Program and approved a new stock repurchase program ("New Stock Repurchase Program"), both actions to take effect on the date of filing of our Annual Report on this Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016. The New Stock Repurchase Program allows for the repurchase of $3,500 million of our outstanding shares of Class A common stock, excluding fees and expenses, through December 31, 2019.

During 2016, 2015 and 2014, we repurchased 8 million, 6 million and 4 million shares respectively, at an aggregate cost of $440 million, $376 million and $188 million, respectively under the Existing Stock Repurchase Program. Additional stock repurchases were made in connection with our stock-based compensation plans, whereby Company shares were tendered by employees for payment of applicable statutory tax withholdings. During 2016, 2015 and 2014, such repurchases totaled 1 million in each of the years, at an aggregate cost of $72 million, $84 million and $60 million, respectively. We account for the repurchases as constructively retired. At the time of repurchase, shares are returned to the status of authorized and unissued shares. To reflect share repurchases in the consolidated statement of financial position, the Company (i) reduces common stock for the par value of the shares, (ii) reduces additional paid-in capital for the amount in excess of par during the period in which the shares are repurchased and (iii) records any residual amount in excess of available additional paid-in capital to retained earnings.

Revenue Recognition. Revenues related to time-and-materials contracts are recognized as the service is performed and amounts are earned. Revenues from transaction-priced contracts are recognized as transactions are processed and amounts are earned. Revenues related to fixed-price contracts for highly complex application development and systems integration services are recognized as the service is performed using the percentage of completion method of accounting, under which the total value of revenues is recognized on the basis of the percentage that each contract’s total labor cost to date bears to the total expected labor costs (cost to cost method). Revenues related to fixed-price outsourcing services are recognized on a straight-line basis unless revenues are earned and obligations are fulfilled in a different pattern. Revenues related to fixed-price contracts for consulting or other technology services are recognized as services are performed on a proportional performance basis based upon the level of effort.

For all services, revenues are earned and recognized only when all of the following criteria are met: evidence of an arrangement exists, the price is fixed or determinable, the services have been rendered and collectibility is reasonably assured. Contingent or incentive revenues are recognized when the contingency is satisfied and we conclude the amounts are earned. Volume discounts are recorded as a reduction of revenues as services are provided. Revenues also include the reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.

Costs to deliver services are expensed as incurred with the exception of specific costs directly related to transition or set-up activities for outsourcing contracts. Transition costs are deferred and expensed ratably over the period of service. Deferred amounts are protected by collected cash or early termination penalty clauses and are monitored regularly for impairment. Impairment losses are recorded when projected remaining undiscounted operating cash flows of the related contract are not sufficient to recover the carrying amount of the contract assets. Deferred transition costs were approximately $188 million and $137 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and are included in other noncurrent assets in our consolidated statements of financial position. Costs related to warranty provisions are accrued at the time the related revenues are recorded.

We may enter into arrangements that consist of multiple elements. Such arrangements may include any combination of our products, solutions and services. For arrangements with multiple deliverables, we evaluate at the inception of each new arrangement all deliverables to determine whether they represent separate units of accounting. For arrangements with multiple units of accounting, other than arrangements that contain software licenses and software-related services, we allocate consideration among the units of accounting, where separable, based on their relative selling price. Relative selling price is determined based on vendor-specific objective evidence, or VSOE, if it exists. Otherwise, third-party evidence of selling price is used, when it is available, and in circumstances when neither VSOE nor third-party evidence of selling price is available, management’s best estimate of selling price is used. Revenues are recognized for each unit of accounting based on our revenue recognition policy described above.

Fixed-price contracts are generally cancelable subject to a specified notice period. All services provided by us through the date of cancellation are due and payable under the contract terms. We issue invoices related to fixed-price contracts based upon achievement of milestones during a project or other contractual terms. Differences between the timing of billing, based on contract milestones or other contractual terms, and the recognition of revenues are recognized as either unbilled receivables or deferred revenue. Estimates of certain fixed-price contracts are subject to adjustment as a project progresses to reflect changes in expected completion costs or efforts. The cumulative impact of any revision in estimates is reflected in the financial reporting period in which the change in estimate becomes known and any anticipated losses on contracts are recognized immediately.

We also generate product revenues from licensing our software. For perpetual software license arrangements that do not require significant modification or customization of the underlying software, revenues are recognized when the software is delivered and all other software revenue recognition criteria are met. For software license arrangements that require significant functionality enhancements or modification of the software, revenues for the software license and those services are recognized as those services are performed. For software license arrangements that include a right to use the product for a defined period of time, we recognize revenues ratably over the term of the license.

We may enter into arrangements with customers that purchase both software licenses and software-related services from us at the same time, or within close proximity of one another (referred to as software-related multiple-element arrangements). Such software related multiple-element arrangements may include software licenses, software license updates, product support contracts and other software-related services. For those software related multiple-element arrangements, we apply the residual method to determine the amount of software license revenues. Under the residual method, if VSOE of fair value exists for undelivered elements in a multiple-element arrangement, revenues equal to the fair value of the undelivered elements are deferred with the remaining portion of the arrangement consideration generally recognized upon delivery of the software license. For arrangements in which VSOE of fair value does not exist for each software-related undelivered element, revenues for the software license are deferred and not recognized until VSOE of fair value is available for the undelivered element or delivery of each element has occurred. If the only undelivered element is a service, revenues from the delivered element are recognized over the service period.

We also enter into multiple-element arrangements that may include a combination of software licenses and various software-related and non-software-related services. In such arrangements, we first allocate the total arrangement consideration, based on relative selling prices, between the software group of elements and the non-software group of elements. We then further allocate consideration within the software group to the respective elements within that group following the software-related multiple-element arrangements policies described above. For the non-software group of elements, we further allocate consideration to the respective elements based on relative selling prices. After the arrangement consideration has been allocated to the individual elements, we account for each respective element in the arrangement as described above.

Stock-Based Compensation. Stock-based compensation expense for awards of equity instruments to employees and non-employee directors is determined based on the grant-date fair value of those awards. We recognize these compensation costs net of an estimated forfeiture rate over the requisite service period of the award. Forfeitures are estimated on the date of grant and revised if actual or expected forfeiture activity differs materially from original estimates.

Foreign Currency. The assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars from local currencies at current exchange rates and revenues and expenses are translated from local currencies at average monthly exchange rates. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position.

Foreign currency transactions and balances are those that are denominated in a currency other than the subsidiary’s functional currency. The U.S. dollar is the functional currency for certain foreign subsidiaries who conduct business predominantly in U.S. dollars. For these subsidiaries, transactions and balances denominated in the local currency are foreign currency transactions. Foreign currency transactions and balances related to non-monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured to the functional currency of the subsidiary at historical exchange rates while monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured to the functional currency of the subsidiary at current exchange rates. Foreign currency exchange gains or losses from remeasurement are included in the "Foreign currency exchange gain (losses), net" line on our consolidated statement of operations together with gains or losses on our undesignated foreign currency hedges.

Derivative Financial Instruments. Derivative financial instruments are recorded on the balance sheet as either an asset or liability measured at its fair value as of the reporting date. Our derivative financial instruments consist of foreign exchange forward contracts. For derivative financial instruments to qualify for hedge accounting, the following criteria must be met: (1) the hedging instrument must be designated as a hedge; (2) the hedged exposure must be specifically identifiable and must expose us to risk; and (3) it is expected that a change in fair value of the derivative financial instrument and an opposite change in the fair value of the hedged exposure will have a high degree of correlation. The authoritative guidance requires that changes in our derivatives’ fair values be recognized in income unless specific hedge accounting and documentation criteria are met (i.e., the instruments are designated and accounted for as hedges). We record the effective portion of the unrealized gains and losses on our derivative financial instruments that are designated as cash flow hedges in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position. Any ineffectiveness or excluded portion of a designated cash flow hedge is recognized in income. Upon occurrence of the hedged transaction, the gains and losses on the derivative are recognized in income.

Use of Estimates. The preparation of financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, including the recoverability of tangible and intangible assets, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. The most significant estimates relate to the recognition of revenues and profits based on the percentage of completion method of accounting for certain fixed-price contracts, the allowance for doubtful accounts, income taxes, assumptions used in valuing stock-based compensation arrangements, valuation of derivative financial instruments and investments, business combinations, intangible assets and other long-lived assets, valuation of goodwill, contingencies and litigation. We evaluate our estimates on a continuous basis. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. The actual amounts may vary from the estimates used in the preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

Risks and Uncertainties. The majority of our global delivery centers and employees are located in India. As a result, we may be subject to certain risks associated with international operations, including risks associated with foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, risks associated with the application and imposition of protective legislation, immigration laws and regulations relating to import and export or otherwise resulting from foreign policy or the variability of foreign economic or political conditions. Additional risks associated with international operations include difficulties in enforcing intellectual property rights, the burdens of complying with a wide variety of foreign laws, potential geo-political risks, risks associated with terrorist activities and local or cross border conflicts and potentially adverse tax consequences, tariffs, quotas and other barriers.

Concentration of Credit Risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, time deposits, investments in securities, derivative financial instruments and billed and unbilled accounts receivable. We maintain our cash and cash equivalents, investments and derivative financial instruments with high credit quality financial institutions, invest in investment-grade debt securities and limit the amount of credit exposure to any one commercial issuer. Our accounts receivable are dispersed across many customers operating in different industries; therefore, concentration of credit risk is limited.

Income Taxes. We provide for income taxes utilizing the asset and liability method of accounting. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recorded to reflect the tax consequences in future years of differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their financial reporting amounts at each balance sheet date, based on enacted tax laws and statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that future tax benefits associated with a deferred income tax asset will not be realized, a valuation allowance is provided. The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities of a change in the tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Tax benefits earned on employee stock awards in excess of recorded stock-based compensation expense are credited to additional paid-in capital. Our provision for income taxes also includes the impact of provisions established for uncertain income tax positions, as well as the related interest.

Earnings Per Share, or EPS. Basic EPS excludes dilution and is computed by dividing earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS includes all potential dilutive common stock in the weighted average shares outstanding. For purposes of computing diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, 3 million, 4 million and 5 million shares were assumed to have been outstanding related to common share equivalents. We exclude from the calculation of diluted EPS options with exercise prices that are greater than the average market price and shares related to stock-based awards whose combined exercise price, unamortized fair value and excess tax benefits were greater in each of those periods than the average market price of our common stock for the period, because their effect would be anti-dilutive. We excluded less than 1 million of anti-dilutive shares in each of 2016, 2015 and 2014 from our diluted EPS calculation. We include performance stock unit awards in the dilutive potential common shares when they become contingently issuable per the authoritative guidance and exclude the awards when they are not contingently issuable.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements.

In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, issued an update related to the presentation of debt issuance costs. The update requires debt issuance costs, other than costs incurred to secure lines of credit, be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying value of that debt liability. The recognition and measurement guidance for debt issuance costs are not affected by this update. The guidance is effective on a retrospective basis for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2016. Thus, we have adopted this guidance as of January 1, 2016. We conformed prior period's presentation to current period's presentation on our consolidated statement of financial position. The adoption of this standard impacted financial statement presentation only and had no effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

In April 2015, the FASB issued an update to the standard on internal-use software providing guidance to customers in evaluating whether a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license. If a cloud computing arrangement includes a software license, the updated standard requires the customer to account for the software license element of the arrangement consistent with the acquisition of other software licenses. If a cloud computing arrangement does not include a software license, the customer is required to account for the arrangement as a service contract. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2016. A company can elect to adopt the update either prospectively to all arrangements entered into or materially modified after the effective date or retrospectively. We have adopted this update prospectively beginning January 1, 2016. The adoption of this update did not have a material effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

New Accounting Pronouncements.

In May 2014, the FASB issued a standard on revenue from contracts with customers. In 2016, the FASB issued five amendments to the new standard. The new standard, as amended, sets forth a single comprehensive model for recognizing and reporting revenues. The standard also requires additional financial statement disclosures that will enable users to understand the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows relating to customer contracts. The standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted but not before periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. We do not intend to adopt early. The standard allows for two methods of adoption: the full retrospective adoption, which requires the standard to be applied to each prior period presented, or the modified retrospective adoption, which requires the cumulative effect of adoption to be recognized as an adjustment to opening retained earnings in the period of adoption. While we are currently evaluating the effect the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures, we currently believe the most significant impacts relate to changes in the method used to measure progress on our fixed-price contracts, capitalization and amortization of costs to acquire and fulfill a contract, as well as the timing of revenue recognition on our software license contracts. Due to the complexity of certain of our contracts, the actual revenue recognition treatment required under the standard will be dependent on contract-specific terms.

In January 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on financial instruments. The update significantly revises an entity’s accounting related to (1) the classification and measurement of investments in equity securities and (2) the presentation of certain fair value changes for financial liabilities measured at fair value. It also amends certain disclosure requirements. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Upon adoption, entities will be required to make a cumulative-effect adjustment to the statement of financial position as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. However, the specific guidance on equity securities without readily determinable fair value will apply prospectively to all equity investments that exist as of the date of adoption. Early adoption of certain sections of this update is permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect the update will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

In February 2016, the FASB issued a standard on lease accounting. The new standard replaces the existing guidance on leases and requires the lessee to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with lease terms equal to or greater than twelve months. For finance leases, the lessee would recognize interest expense and amortization of the right-of-use asset, and for operating leases, the lessee would recognize total lease expense on a straight-line basis. This standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Upon adoption, entities will be required to use a modified retrospective transition which provides for certain practical expedients. Entities are required to apply the new standard at the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented. Early adoption of this new standard is permitted. We are currently evaluating the effect the new standard will have on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. We expect the requirement to recognize a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for operating leases to have a material impact on the presentation of our consolidated statements of financial position.

In March 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on derivatives and hedging, which clarifies the effect of derivative contract novations on existing hedge accounting relationships. As it relates to derivative instruments, novation refers to replacing one of the parties to a derivative instrument with a new party, which may occur for a variety of reasons such as: financial institution mergers, intercompany transactions, an entity exiting a particular derivatives business or relationship, or because of laws or regulatory requirements. The update clarifies that a change in the counterparty to a derivative instrument that has been designated as the hedging instrument does not, in and of itself, require dedesignation of that hedge accounting relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2017. Upon adoption, entities can choose to apply the update on either a prospective basis or a modified retrospective basis. We do not expect the adoption of this amendment to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

In March 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on stock compensation, which simplifies several aspects of the accounting for employee share-based payment transactions including the accounting for excess tax benefits and deficiencies, forfeitures, and statutory tax withholding requirements, as well as classification in the statement of cash flows. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2017. Upon adoption, entities will be required to apply a modified retrospective, prospective or retrospective transition method depending on the specific section of the guidance being adopted. We expect the requirements to recognize excess tax benefits and deficiencies on stock awards in the income tax provision and to present the excess tax benefits and deficiencies in operating activities in the statement of cash flows to be the primary effects of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on financial instruments, which amends the guidance on the impairment of financial instruments. The update changes the methodology for measuring credit losses on financial instruments and the timing of when such losses are recorded by introducing an approach based on expected losses. The estimate of expected credit losses will require entities to incorporate considerations of historical information, current information and reasonable and supportable forecasts. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2021. Early adoption is permitted beginning on or after January 1, 2020. Upon adoption, entities will be required to use a modified retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements.

In August 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on the statement of cash flows, which clarifies the presentation and classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments. The update addresses specific cash flow issues, including debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs, contingent consideration payments made after a business combination, proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims, and distributions received from equity method investees. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period, provided that all of the updates are adopted in the same period. Upon adoption, entities will be required to use a retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements. The adoption of this guidance will affect financial statement presentation only and will have no effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In October 2016, the FASB issued an update to the standard on income taxes, which requires the recognition of current and deferred income taxes when an intra-entity transfer of assets other than inventory occurs. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning on or after January 1, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. Upon adoption, the entities will be required to use a modified retrospective transition approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements.

In January 2017, the FASB issued an update to the standard on business combinations, which clarifies the definition of a business. The update requires a business to include at least an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs. The update also states that the definition of a business is not met if substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after January 1, 2018. Upon adoption, entities will be required to apply the update prospectively. We are currently evaluating the impact of the new guidance on our consolidated financial statements.

In January 2017, the FASB issued an update to the standard on goodwill, which eliminates the need to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill when an impairment is indicated. The update states that goodwill impairment is measured as the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying value over its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of goodwill. The update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after January 1, 2020. Early adoption is permitted for any impairment tests performed after January 1, 2017. Upon adoption, entities will be required to apply the update prospectively. We do not expect the adoption of this amendment to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.