Note 8 - Goodwill (Details) - Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Segment (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2013	Aug. 31, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	$ 245,791	$ 228,265
Goodwill acquired during the period	5	21,991
Foreign currency translations	(1,223)	(4,465)
Balance	244,573	245,791
United States [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	167,817	145,826
Goodwill acquired during the period	5	21,991
Balance	167,822	167,817
Europe [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	73,806	78,172
Foreign currency translations	(382)	(4,366)
Balance	73,424	73,806
Asia Pacific [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Balance	4,168	4,267
Foreign currency translations	(841)	(99)
Balance	$ 3,327	$ 4,168