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Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)
 12 Months Ended
Aug. 31, 2024
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Nature of Operations Franklin Covey Co. (hereafter referred to as we, us, our, or the Company) is a global company specializing in organizational performance improvement. We help individuals and organizations achieve results that require a change in human behavior and our mission is to “enable greatness in people and organizations everywhere.” We have some of the best-known offerings in the training industry, including a suite of individual-effectiveness and leadership-development training and products based on the best-selling books, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The Speed of Trust, The Leader In Me, The Four Disciplines of Execution, and Multipliers, and proprietary content in the areas of Leadership, Execution, Productivity, Sales Performance, and Educational improvement. Our offerings are described in further detail at www.franklincovey.com and elsewhere in this report. Through our organizational research and curriculum development efforts, we seek to consistently create, develop, and introduce new services and products that help individuals and organizations achieve their own great purposes.
Fiscal Year Fiscal Year

Our fiscal year ends on August 31 of each year and our fiscal quarters end on the last day of November, February, and May. Unless otherwise noted, references to fiscal years apply to the 12 months ended August 31 of the specified year.
Basis Of Presentation Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and our wholly owned subsidiaries, which consist of Franklin Development Corp., and our offices that serve clients in Japan, China, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.
Use Of Estimates Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, shareholders’ equity, revenues, and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications Reclassifications

Certain reclassifications have been made in our prior period financial statements to conform with the current period presentation. On our consolidated income statement and statement of comprehensive income for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023, we have separately presented $0.6 million of restructuring costs which were previously included with selling, general, and administrative expenses.
Cash And Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents

Our cash is deposited with financial institutions located throughout the United States of America and at banks in foreign countries where we operate subsidiary offices, and at times these deposits may exceed insured limits. We consider all highly liquid debt instruments with an original maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Of our $48.7 million of cash at August 31, 2024, $13.9 million was held outside the U.S. by our foreign subsidiaries. We routinely repatriate cash from our foreign subsidiaries and consider cash generated from foreign activities a key component of our overall liquidity position.
Inventories Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value, cost being determined using the first-in, first-out method. Elements of cost in inventories include raw materials and direct labor. Cash flows from the sale of inventory are included in cash flows provided by operating activities in our consolidated statements of cash flows. Our inventories are comprised primarily of training materials, books, training-related accessories, and consisted of the following (in thousands):

AUGUST 31,

2024

2023

Finished goods

$

4,002

$

4,204

Raw materials

-

9

$

4,002

$

4,213

Provision is made to reduce excess and obsolete inventories to their estimated net realizable value. In assessing the valuation of our inventories, we make judgments regarding future demand requirements and compare these estimates with current and committed inventory levels. Inventory requirements may change based on projected customer demand, training curriculum life-cycle changes, and other factors that could affect the valuation of our inventories.
Other Current Assets Other Current Assets

Significant components of our other current assets were as follows (in thousands):

AUGUST 31,

2024

2023

Deferred commissions

$

14,784

$

14,426

Other current assets

1,691

1,812

$

16,475

$

16,238

We defer commission expense on subscription-based sales and recognize the commission expense with the recognition of the corresponding revenue.
Property And Equipment Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation expense, which includes depreciation on our corporate campus that is accounted for as a financing obligation (Note 7), is calculated using the straight-line method over the lesser of the expected useful life of the asset or the contracted lease period. We generally use the following depreciable lives for our major classifications of property and equipment:

Description

Useful Lives

Buildings

20 years

Machinery and equipment

5–7 years

Computer hardware and software

3–5 years

Furniture, fixtures, and leasehold improvements

5–7 years


‎

Our property and equipment were comprised of the following (in thousands):

AUGUST 31,

2024

2023

Land and improvements

$

1,312

$

1,312 

Buildings

28,240

30,038

Machinery and equipment

401

495

Computer hardware and software

29,263

28,948

Furniture, fixtures, and leasehold

improvements

9,362

10,147

68,578

70,940

Less accumulated depreciation

(59,842)

(60,901)

$

8,736

$

10,039

We expense costs for repairs and maintenance as incurred. Gains and losses resulting from the sale of property and equipment are recorded in income from operations. Depreciation of capitalized subscription portal costs is included in depreciation expense in the accompanying consolidated income statements and statements of comprehensive income.
Impairment Of Long-Lived Assets Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Long-lived tangible assets and finite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. We use an estimate of undiscounted future net cash flows of the assets over the remaining useful lives in determining whether the carrying value of the assets is recoverable. If the carrying values of the assets exceed the anticipated future cash flows of the assets, we recognize an impairment loss equal to the difference between the carrying values of the assets and their estimated fair values. Impairment of long-lived assets is assessed at the lowest levels for which there are identifiable cash flows that are independent from other groups of assets. The evaluation of long-lived assets requires us to use estimates of future cash flows. If forecasts and assumptions used to support the realizability of our long-lived tangible and finite-lived intangible assets change in the future, significant impairment charges could result that would adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

In a prior period, we initiated the development of a student leadership assessment. However, due to societal changes in perception regarding the collection of student information and potential legal challenges, during the second quarter of fiscal 2024 we determined that it was in the best interest of the Company to suspend further development of the student leadership assessment and impair the associated asset. Approximately $0.6 million of the capitalized costs were for software and were previously included in property and equipment, and $0.3 million was included in capitalized development, which is included in our other long-term assets. The student leadership assessment was being developed solely for use in our Education Division.
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets And Goodwill Impairment Testing Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets and Goodwill Impairment Testing

Intangible assets that are deemed to have an indefinite life and acquired goodwill are not amortized, but rather are tested for impairment on an annual basis or more often if events or circumstances indicate that a potential impairment exists. The Covey trade name intangible asset has been deemed to have an indefinite life. This intangible asset is tested for impairment using qualitative factors or the present value of estimated royalties on trade name related revenues, which consist primarily of training seminars and work sessions, international licensee sales, and related products. Based on the fiscal 2024 evaluation of the Covey trade name, we believe the fair value of the Covey trade name substantially exceeds its carrying value. No impairment charges were recorded against the Covey trade name during the periods presented in this report.

Goodwill is recorded when the purchase price for a business acquisition exceeds the estimated fair value of the net tangible and identified intangible assets acquired. We test goodwill for impairment each year on August 31 or upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances which indicate that goodwill may be impaired. Goodwill is assigned to

our reporting units, which are our operating segments, where discrete financial information is available that is regularly reviewed by management to evaluate segment performance.

During the annual impairment testing process, we have the option to first perform a qualitative assessment (commonly referred to as Step Zero) over relative events and circumstances to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value or to perform a quantitative assessment where we estimate the fair value of each reporting unit using both an income and market approach. At August 31, 2024, we completed a quantitative assessment of our goodwill and concluded there were no impairments. Refer to Note 4, Intangible Assets and Goodwill for further information on our goodwill, including the allocation of our goodwill to our operating segments.

When we perform a quantitative analysis to assess the recoverability of our goodwill, we determine the estimated fair value of each reporting unit and compare it to the carrying value of the reporting unit, including goodwill. If the fair value is less than the carrying value of the net assets and related goodwill, an impairment charge is recognized for the difference. The estimated fair value of each reporting unit is calculated using a combination of the income approach (discounted cash flows) and the market approach (using market multiples derived from a set of companies with comparable market characteristics). The value estimated using a discounted cash flow model is weighted against the estimated value derived from the guideline company market approach method. This market approach method estimates the price reasonably expected to be realized from the sale of the reporting unit based on comparable companies. In developing the discounted cash flow analysis, our assumptions about future revenues and expenses, capital expenditures, and changes in working capital are based on our internal plan and assume a terminal growth rate thereafter. The discounted cash flow analysis is derived from valuation techniques in which one or more significant inputs are not observable and constitute Level 3 fair value measures.

The determination of the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions include revenue growth rates and operating margins used to calculate projected future cash flows, risk-adjusted discount rates, future economic and market conditions, and determination of appropriate market comparables. We base our fair value estimates on assumptions we believe to be reasonable, but that are unpredictable and inherently uncertain. Actual future results may differ from those estimates.
Capitalized Curriculum Development Costs Capitalized Curriculum Development Costs

During the normal course of business, we develop training courses and related materials that we sell to our clients. Capitalized curriculum development costs include certain expenditures to develop course materials such as video segments, course manuals, and other related materials. Our capitalized curriculum development spending in fiscal 2024, which totaled $6.9 million, was primarily to create new and refreshed offerings and content for the AAP, including a significantly refreshed The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People offering which is expected to be released early in fiscal 2025, and new offerings for our Education practice. Curriculum costs are capitalized when there is a major revision to an existing course that requires a significant re-write of the course materials, or a significant investment in new curriculum. Costs incurred to maintain existing offerings are expensed when incurred. In addition, development costs incurred in the research and development of new offerings and software products to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed are expensed as incurred until economic and technological feasibility have been established.

Capitalized development costs are amortized over three- to five-year useful lives, which are based on numerous factors, including expected cycles of major changes to the content. Capitalized curriculum development costs are reported as a component of other long-term assets in our consolidated balance sheets and totaled $15.3 million and $10.9 million at August 31, 2024 and 2023. Amortization of capitalized curriculum development costs is reported as a component of cost of revenue in the accompanying consolidated income statements and statements of comprehensive income.
Accrued Liabilities
‎

Accrued Liabilities

Significant components of our accrued liabilities were as follows (in thousands):

AUGUST 31,

2024

2023

Accrued compensation

$

18,463

$

17,974

Other accrued liabilities

13,991

10,278

$

32,454

$

28,252
Contingent Consideration Payments From Business Acquisitions Contingent Consideration Payments from Business Acquisitions

Business acquisitions may include contingent consideration payments based on various future financial measures related to the acquired entity. Contingent consideration is required to be recognized at fair value as of the acquisition date. We estimate the fair value of these liabilities based on financial projections of the acquired company and estimated probabilities of achievement. Based on updated estimates and projections, the contingent consideration liabilities are adjusted at each reporting date to their estimated fair value. Changes in fair value subsequent to the acquisition date are reported in selling, general, and administrative expense in our consolidated income statements and statements of comprehensive income and may have a material impact on our operating results. Variations in the fair value of contingent consideration liabilities may result from changes in discount periods or rates, changes in the timing and amount of earnings estimates, and changes in probability assumptions with respect to the likelihood of achieving various payment criteria.
Foreign Currency Translation And Transactions Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions

The functional currencies of our foreign operations are the reported local currencies. Translation adjustments result from translating our foreign subsidiaries’ financial statements into United States dollars. The balance sheet accounts of our foreign subsidiaries are translated into United States dollars using the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet dates. Revenues and expenses are translated using average exchange rates for each month during the fiscal year. The resulting translation differences are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in shareholders’ equity. Foreign currency transaction losses totaled $0.1 million, $0.1 million, and $0.5 million for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively, and are included as a component of selling, general, and administrative expenses in our consolidated income statements and statements of comprehensive income.
Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition

We account for revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). For further information on our revenue, refer to Note 2, Revenue.

Revenue is recognized as the net amount to be received after deducting estimated amounts for discounts and product returns.
Shipping And Handling Fees And Costs Shipping and Handling Fees and Costs

All shipping and handling fees billed to customers are recorded as a component of revenue. All costs incurred related to the shipping and handling of products are recorded in cost of revenue.
Advertising Costs Advertising Costs

Costs for advertising are expensed as incurred. Advertising costs included in selling, general, and administrative expenses totaled $5.2 million, $4.5 million, and $4.8 million for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Restructuring Costs
‎

Restructuring Costs

During fiscal 2024, we restructured certain areas of our operations to sharpen the focus of our efforts and resources on plans and initiatives to drive additional growth in the future. As a result of this restructuring plan, we reduced our workforce by more than 50 associates and incurred severance and legal expenses totaling $3.0 million. Approximately $2.5 million of the restructuring expense was attributable to the Direct Office segment, $0.4 million was attributable to the Education segment, and $0.1 million was attributable to corporate functions. We intend to invest the resources attributable to this restructuring in initiatives to drive future growth in both divisions. The remaining restructuring liability at August 31, 2024 totaled $0.4 million and is included in accrued liabilities in our consolidated balance sheet. The remaining accrued restructuring costs are expected to be paid in the first half of fiscal 2025.
Stock-Based Compensation Stock-Based Compensation

We record the compensation expense for all stock-based payments, including grants of stock options and the compensatory elements of our employee stock purchase plan, in our consolidated income statements and statements of comprehensive income based upon their fair values over the requisite service period. For more information on our stock-based compensation plans, refer to Note 12.
Income Taxes Income Taxes

Our income tax provision has been determined using the asset and liability approach of accounting for income taxes. Under this approach, deferred income taxes represent the future tax consequences expected to occur when the reported amounts of assets and liabilities are recovered or paid. The income tax provision represents income taxes paid or payable for the current year plus the change in deferred taxes during the year. Deferred income taxes result from differences between the financial and tax bases of our assets and liabilities and are adjusted for tax rates and tax laws when changes are enacted. A valuation allowance is provided against deferred income tax assets when it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the deferred income tax assets will not be realized. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized as components of income tax benefit or expense in our consolidated income statements and statements of comprehensive income.

We may recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.

We provide for income taxes, net of applicable foreign tax credits, on temporary differences in our investment in foreign subsidiaries, which consist primarily of unrepatriated earnings.
Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income includes changes to equity accounts that were not the result of transactions with shareholders. Comprehensive income is comprised of net income and other comprehensive income and loss items. Our other comprehensive income and losses generally consist of changes in the cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax.
Accounting Pronouncement Issued Not Yet Adopted Accounting Pronouncements Issued Not Yet Adopted

In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures. This ASU is intended to improve reportable segment disclosure primarily by requiring entities to provide more disaggregated expense information about their reportable segments. The new guidance also improves interim disclosure requirements, clarifies circumstances in which an entity can disclose multiple segment measures of profit or loss, provides new segment disclosure requirements for entities with a single reportable segment, and contains other disclosure requirements. ASU 2023-07 is effective for public entities in

fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently assessing the anticipated impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

On December 14, 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures. ASU 2023-09 provides guidance to enhance transparency about income tax information through improvements to income tax disclosures primarily related to the effective income tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. This new guidance also includes certain other amendments to improve the effectiveness of income tax disclosures. For public companies, the guidance in ASU 2023-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024. We are currently assessing the anticipated impact of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.