Note 9. Intangible Assets (Detail) - Identifiable Intangible Assets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Feb. 29, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011
Net Carrying Amount	$ 41,470	$ 46,310
Data Content [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	49,468	52,438
Accumulated Amortization	16,923	16,849
Net Carrying Amount	32,545	35,589
Client Relationships [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	20,269	21,088
Accumulated Amortization	13,143	12,782
Net Carrying Amount	7,126	8,306
Software Technology [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	18,725	19,093
Accumulated Amortization	18,222	18,222
Net Carrying Amount	503	871
Non-Compete Agreements [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	1,750	1,750
Accumulated Amortization	613	437
Net Carrying Amount	1,137	1,313
Trade Names [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	572	572
Accumulated Amortization	413	341
Net Carrying Amount	159	231
Total [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	90,784	94,941
Accumulated Amortization	49,314	48,631
Net Carrying Amount	$ 41,470	$ 46,310