Stock-Based Compensation

3 Months Ended

Feb. 29, 2016

Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]

Stock-based compensation expense reflects the fair value of stock-based awards measured at the grant date and recognized over the relevant service period. We estimate the fair value of each stock-based award on the measurement date using the current market price of the stock or the Black-Scholes option valuation model. In addition, during the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, each of the first three quarters of fiscal year 2015, and the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, we granted performance-based restricted stock units that include a three-year market condition. In order to estimate the fair value of such awards, we used a Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model. The Black-Scholes and Monte Carlo Simulation valuation models incorporate assumptions as to stock price volatility, the expected life of options or awards, a risk-free interest rate and dividend yield. We recognize stock-based compensation expense related to options and restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the service period of the award, which is generally 4 or 5 years for options and 3 years for restricted stock units. We recognize stock-based compensation expense related to performance stock units and our employee stock purchase plan using an accelerated attribution method.

The following table provides the classification of stock-based compensation as reflected in our condensed consolidated statements of operations (in thousands):



	Three Months Ended
	February 29, 2016		February 28, 2015
Cost of maintenance and services	$	196	$	165
Sales and marketing	1,078		1,237
Product development	2,679		1,502
General and administrative	2,984		2,932
Total stock-based compensation	$	6,937	$	5,836

- Definition

The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details.

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