Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets (Summary Of Changes In Goodwill Allocated To The Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2011	Aug. 31, 2010	Aug. 31, 2009
Gross Balance	$ 1,059,020	$ 1,051,276	$ 1,047,941
Accumulated Impairment Balance	(1,022,821)	(1,022,821)	(1,022,821)
Acquisitions	6,311	3,800
Foreign Currency Impact	1,433	(465)
Net Balance	36,199	28,455
DMS [Member]
Gross Balance	584,018	583,423	583,888
Accumulated Impairment Balance	(558,768)	(558,768)	(558,768)
Foreign Currency Impact	595	(465)
Net Balance	25,250	24,655
E&I [Member]
Gross Balance	342,733	335,584	331,784
Accumulated Impairment Balance	(331,784)	(331,784)	(331,784)
Acquisitions	6,311	3,800
Foreign Currency Impact	838
Net Balance	10,949	3,800
HVS [Member]
Gross Balance	132,269	132,269	132,269
Accumulated Impairment Balance	$ (132,269)	$ (132,269)	$ (132,269)