Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
Jan. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Business	Business Autodesk, Inc. (“Autodesk” or the “Company”) is a world leading design software and services company, offering customers productive business solutions through powerful technology products and services. The Company serves customers in the architecture, engineering, and construction; manufacturing; and digital media, consumer, and entertainment industries. The Company’s sophisticated software products, offered through a hybrid of desktop and cloud functionality, enable its customers to experience their ideas before they are real by allowing them to imagine, design, and create their ideas and to visualize, simulate, and analyze real-world performance early in the design process by creating digital prototypes. These capabilities allow Autodesk’s customers to foster innovation, optimize and improve their designs, help save time and money, improve quality, and collaborate with others. Autodesk software products are sold globally, both directly to customers and through a network of resellers and distributors.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Autodesk and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Change in Presentation	Change in Presentation During the first quarter of fiscal 2018, the Company changed its historical presentation of its revenue and cost of revenue categories. Previously, the Company presented revenue and cost of revenue on two lines: subscription, and license and other. Included within subscription was maintenance revenue for all of the Company's software products and revenue for the Company's cloud service offerings. License and other revenue included product license revenue, standalone consulting services, and other immaterial items. Also, included within license and other revenue was an allocation of the estimated value of the software license from the Company's term-based product subscriptions and enterprise offerings, which contain a software license, maintenance and cloud services. For these arrangements, as there is no vendor-specific-objective evidence ("VSOE") for the related maintenance, the arrangement consideration was allocated between the license and maintenance deliverables based on best estimated selling prices in our consolidated statements of operations. The Company performed the allocation because it provided a meaningful presentation to investors based on the Company's then current product mix. As part of the Company's technological and business model transition, the Company discontinued the sale of most of its perpetual licenses, transitioning away from selling a mix of perpetual licenses and term-based product subscriptions to a single subscription model involving a combined hybrid offering of desktop software and cloud functionality, which provides a device-independent, collaborative design workflow for designers and their stakeholders. Fiscal 2018 marks the first full year in the Company's history that it sold substantially all term-based product subscriptions. To better reflect this shift in its business, the Company adopted a revised presentation in the first quarter of fiscal 2018, including the separation of subscription revenue and maintenance revenue on distinct line items on the Company's consolidated statement of operations. Subscription revenue now consists of our term-based product subscriptions, cloud service offerings, and flexible enterprise business arrangements. Note that with the change in presentation of revenue in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations in fiscal 2018, term-based product subscriptions and flexible enterprise business arrangements are classified and presented in a single line item. Maintenance revenue is presented as a separate line item in the new presentation and consists of revenue from the Company's existing maintenance plan agreements and related renewals. License and other revenue will continue to be presented as a separate line item and include any residual perpetual licenses sold, standalone consulting services, and other immaterial items. In connection with these revisions, the Company also revised its cost of revenue classification to present cost of subscription and maintenance revenue and amortization of developed technology separately. Cost of license and other revenue will continue to be presented as a separate line item. This change in presentation does not affect the Company's total net revenues, total cost of net revenues or overall gross margin.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in Autodesk’s consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. These estimates are based on information available as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. On a regular basis, management evaluates these estimates and assumptions. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates. Examples of significant estimates and assumptions made by management involve the determination of the fair value of acquired assets and liabilities, goodwill, financial instruments including strategic investments, long-lived assets and other intangible assets, the realizability of deferred tax assets, and the fair value of stock awards. The Company also makes assumptions, judgments, and estimates in determining the accruals for uncertain tax positions, provisional estimates associated with the December 22, 2017 enactment of the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Act"), variable compensation, partner incentive programs, product returns reserves, allowances for doubtful accounts, asset retirement obligations, and legal contingencies.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions	Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions The assets and liabilities of Autodesk’s foreign subsidiaries are translated from their respective functional currencies into U.S. dollars at the rates in effect at the balance sheet date, and revenue and expense amounts are translated at exchange rates that approximate those rates in effect during the period in which the underlying transactions occur. Foreign currency translation adjustments are recorded as other comprehensive (loss) income. Gains and losses realized from foreign currency transactions, those transactions denominated in currencies other than the foreign subsidiary’s functional currency, are included in interest and other income, net. Monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured using foreign currency exchange rates at the end of the period, and non-monetary assets are remeasured based on historical exchange rates.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments Autodesk accounts for its derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and carries them at fair value. Gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value are accounted for depending on the use of the derivative and whether it is designated and qualifies for hedge accounting. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are adjusted to fair value through earnings.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Autodesk considers all highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.
Marketable Securities and Privately Held Company Investments	Marketable Securities and Privately Held Company Investments Marketable securities are stated at fair value. Marketable securities maturing within one year that are not restricted are classified as current assets. Substantially all marketable debt and equity investments held by Autodesk are classified as current based on the nature of the investments and their availability for use in current operations. Autodesk determines the appropriate classification of its marketable securities at the time of purchase and re-evaluates such classification as of each balance sheet date. Autodesk carries all “available-for-sale securities” at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, reported in stockholders’ equity (deficit) until disposition or maturity. Autodesk carries all “trading securities” at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, recorded in “Interest and other income, net” in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific-identification method. Autodesk regularly invests in non-marketable debt and equity securities of privately held companies. The carrying values of such investments are included in other long-term assets. For the majority of our privately held company investments, we use the cost method of accounting. All of Autodesk’s marketable securities and privately held company investments are subject to a periodic impairment review. The Company recognizes an impairment charge when a decline in the fair value of its investments below the cost basis is judged to be other-than-temporary. Autodesk considers various factors in determining whether to recognize an impairment charge, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than Autodesk’s cost basis, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee, and Autodesk’s intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in the market value.
Accounts Receivable, Net	Allowances for uncollectible trade receivables are based upon historical loss patterns, the number of days that billings are past due, and an evaluation of the potential risk of loss associated with problem accounts. As part of the indirect channel model, Autodesk has a partner incentive program that uses quarterly attainment of monetary rewards to motivate distributors and resellers to achieve mutually agreed upon business goals in a specified time period. A portion of these incentives reduce license and other revenue in the current period. The remainder, which relates to incentives on our Subscription Program, is recorded as a reduction to deferred revenue in the period the subscription transaction is billed and subsequently recognized as a reduction to subscription revenue over the contract period. These incentive balance s do not require significant assumptions or judgments. Depending on how the payments are made, the reserves associated with the partner incentive program are treated on the balance sheet as either contra account receivable or accounts payable.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk Autodesk places its cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities in highly liquid instruments with, and in the custody of, multiple diversified financial institutions globally with high credit ratings and limits the amounts invested with any one institution, type of security, and issuer. Autodesk’s primary commercial banking relationship is with Citigroup Inc. and its global affiliates. Citibank, N.A., an affiliate of Citigroup, is one of the lead lenders and an agent in the syndicate of Autodesk’s $400.0 million line of credit facility. It is Autodesk’s policy to limit the amounts invested with any one institution by type of security and issuer. The bank counterparties to the derivative contracts potentially expose Autodesk to credit-related losses in the event of their nonperformance. However, to mitigate that risk, Autodesk only contracts with counterparties who meet the Company's minimum requirements under its counterparty risk assessment process. Autodesk monitors counterparty risk on at least a quarterly basis and will adjust its exposure to various counterparties as necessary. Autodesk generally enters into master netting arrangements, which reduce credit risk by permitting net settlement of transactions with the same counterparty. However, Autodesk does not have any master netting arrangements in place with collateral features. Autodesk’s accounts receivable are derived from sales to a large number of resellers, distributors, and direct customers in the Americas; EMEA; and APAC geographies. Autodesk performs ongoing evaluations of these partners' financial condition and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary, but generally does not require collateral from such parties.
Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net	Costs incurred for computer software developed or obtained for internal use are capitalized for application development activities, if material, and immediately expensed for preliminary project activities and post-implementation activities. These capitalized costs are amortized over the software’s expected useful life, which is generally three years.Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture, and Leasehold Improvements, Net Computer equipment, software, and furniture are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from three to five years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the lease term.
Software Development Costs	Software Development Costs Software development costs incurred prior to the establishment of technological feasibility are included in research and development expenses. Autodesk defines establishment of technological feasibility as the completion of a working model. Software development costs incurred subsequent to the establishment of technological feasibility through the period of general market availability of the products are capitalized and generally amortized over a three-year period, if material.
Other Intangible Assets, Net	Other Intangible Assets, Net Other intangible assets include developed technologies, customer relationships, trade names, patents, user lists and the related accumulated amortization. These assets are shown as “Developed technologies, net” and as part of “Other assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The majority of Autodesk’s other intangible assets are amortized to expense over the estimated economic life of the product, which ranges from two to ten years.
Goodwill	Goodwill Goodwill consists of the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. Autodesk tests goodwill for impairment annually in its fourth fiscal quarter or more often if circumstances indicate a potential impairment may exist, or if events have affected the composition of reporting units. When goodwill is assessed for impairment, Autodesk has the option to perform an assessment of qualitative factors of impairment (“optional assessment”) prior to necessitating a quantitative impairment test. Should the optional assessment be used for any given fiscal year, qualitative factors to consider include cost factors; financial performance; legal, regulatory, contractual, political, business, or other factors; entity specific factors; industry and market considerations, macroeconomic conditions, and other relevant events and factors affecting the reporting unit. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value, then performing the quantitative impairment test is unnecessary. The quantitative impairment test is necessary when either Autodesk does not use the optional assessment or, as a result of the optional assessment, it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value. As described in the "Accounting Standards Adopted" section of Note 1, Autodesk early adopted ASU 2017-04, which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill to eliminate Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test, removing the need to determine the implied fair value of goodwill and comparing it to the carrying amount of that goodwill to measure the impairment loss, if any. In situations in which an entity's reporting unit is publicly traded, the fair value of the Company may be approximated by its market capitalization, in performing the quantitative impairment test. Goodwill impairment exists when the estimated fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying value. If impairment exists, the carrying value of the goodwill is reduced to fair value through an impairment charge recorded in the Company's statements of operations. The process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill is subjective and requires significant judgment at many points during the analysis. The value of Autodesk’s goodwill could also be impacted by future adverse changes such as: (i) declines in Autodesk’s actual financial results, (ii) a sustained decline in Autodesk’s market capitalization, (iii) a significant slowdown in the worldwide economy or the industries Autodesk serves, or (iv) changes in Autodesk’s business strategy. For the annual impairment test, Autodesk's market capitalization was substantially in excess of the carrying value of the Company as of January 31, 2018. Accordingly, Autodesk has determined there was no goodwill impairment during the year ended January 31, 2018. In addition, Autodesk did not recognize any goodwill impairment losses in fiscal 2017 or 2016.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets	Impairment of Long-Lived Assets At least annually or more frequently as circumstances dictate, Autodesk reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever impairment indicators exist. Autodesk continually monitors events and changes in circumstances that could indicate the carrying amounts of its long-lived assets may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances occur, Autodesk assesses recoverability of these assets. Recoverability is measured by comparison of the carrying amounts of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flow the assets are expected to generate. If the long-lived assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is equal to the amount by which the carrying value of the assets exceeds its fair market value. Autodesk did not recognize any material impairments of long-lived assets during the fiscal years ended January 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively. In addition to the recoverability assessments, Autodesk routinely reviews the remaining estimated useful lives of its long-lived assets. Any reduction in the useful life assumption will result in increased depreciation and amortization expense in the quarter when such determinations are made, as well as in subsequent quarters.
Deferred Tax Assets	Deferred Tax Assets Deferred tax assets arise primarily from tax credits, net operating losses, and timing differences for reserves, accrued liabilities, stock options, deferred revenue, purchased technologies, and capitalized intangibles, partially offset by U.S. deferred tax liabilities on acquired intangibles, and valuation allowances against U.S. and foreign deferred tax assets. Autodesk performed a quarterly assessment of the recoverability of these net deferred tax assets and believe it will generate sufficient future taxable income in appropriate tax jurisdictions to realize the net deferred tax assets. They are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce gross deferred tax assets to the amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Autodesk recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collection is probable. For multiple element arrangements containing only software and software-related elements, Autodesk allocates the sales price among each of the deliverables using the residual method, under which a portion of the total arrangement consideration is allocated to undelivered elements based on their vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of fair value and the remainder or residual of the total consideration is recognized as revenue for the delivered elements. VSOE is the price charged when an element is sold separately or a price set by management with the relevant authority. If Autodesk does not have VSOE of an undelivered element, revenue recognition is deferred on the entire sales arrangement until all elements for which Autodesk does not have VSOE are delivered. If Autodesk does not have VSOE for undelivered product subscriptions, maintenance or services, the total consideration for the arrangement is recognized ratably over the longest contractual service period in the arrangement. For multiple element arrangements involving non-software elements, including cloud subscription services, our revenue recognition policy is based upon the accounting guidance contained in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. For these arrangements, Autodesk first allocates the total arrangement consideration based on the relative selling prices of the software group of elements as a whole and to the non-software elements. Autodesk then further allocates consideration within the software group to the respective elements within that group using the residual method as described above. Autodesk exercises judgment and uses estimates in connection with the determination of the amount of revenue to be recognized in each accounting period. Autodesk allocates the total arrangement consideration among the various elements based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on its VSOE if available, third-party evidence ("TPE") if VSOE is not available, or the best estimated selling price ("BESP") if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. BESP represents the price at which Autodesk would transact for the deliverable if it were sold regularly on a standalone basis. To establish BESP for those elements for which neither VSOE nor TPE are available, Autodesk performs a quantitative analysis of pricing data points for historical standalone transactions involving such elements for a twelve-month period. As part of this analysis, Autodesk monitors and evaluates the BESP against actual pricing to ensure that it continues to represent a reasonable estimate of the standalone selling price, considering several other external and internal factors including, but not limited to, pricing and discounting practices, contractually stated prices, the geographies in which Autodesk offers products and services, and the type of customer (i.e. distributor, value-added reseller, and direct end user, among others). Autodesk analyzes BESP at least annually or on a more frequent basis if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis, or if significant selling price variances are experienced. In situations when Autodesk has multiple contracts with a single counterparty, Autodesk uses the guidance in ASC 985-605 to evaluate both the form and the substance of the arrangements to determine if they should be combined and accounted for as one arrangement or as separate arrangements. Autodesk’s assessment of the likelihood of collection is also a critical factor in determining the timing of revenue recognition. If Autodesk does not believe that collection is probable, the revenue will be deferred until payment is received. Autodesk's maintenance revenue consists of renewal fees for existing maintenance plan agreements that were initially purchased with a perpetual software license. Under the maintenance plan, customers are eligible to receive unspecified upgrades, when and if available, and technical support. Autodesk recognizes maintenance revenue ratably over the term of the maintenance agreement, which is generally between one and three years. Autodesk's subscription revenue consists of term-based product subscriptions, cloud service offerings, and flexible enterprise business arrangements. With Autodesk's subscription plan, customers can use Autodesk software anytime, anywhere, and get access to the latest updates to previous versions. Revenue from these arrangements is recognized ratably over the contract term. Revenue for Autodesk's cloud service offerings is recognized ratably over the contract term, commencing with the date Autodesk's service is made available to customers and when all other revenue recognition criteria have been satisfied. License and other revenue consists of two components: license revenue and other revenue. License revenue includes software license revenue from the sale of perpetual licenses. Other revenue includes revenue such as standalone consulting and training, and is recognized over time as the services are performed.
Taxes Collected from Customers	Taxes Collected from Customers Autodesk nets taxes collected from customers against those remitted to government authorities in the consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, taxes collected from customers are not reported as revenue.
Shipping and Handling Cost	Shipping and Handling Costs Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of revenue for all periods presented.
Stock-Based Compensation Expense	Autodesk estimates expected volatility for stock-based awards based on the average of the following two measures: (1) a measure of historical volatility in the trading market for the Company’s common stock, and (2) the implied volatility of traded forward call options to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock. The expected volatility for performance stock units subject to market conditions includes the expected volatility of Autodesk's peer companies within the S&P Computer Software Select Index or S&P North American Technology Software Index with a market capitalization over $2.00 billion, depending on the award type. Autodesk estimates the expected life of stock-based awards using both exercise behavior and post-vesting termination behavior as well as consideration of outstanding options. The range of expected lives of ESPP awards are based upon the four, six-month exercise periods within a 24-month offering period. Autodesk did not pay cash dividends in fiscal 2018, 2017, or 2016 and does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Consequently, an expected dividend yield of zero is used in the BSM option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation model. The risk-free interest rate used in the BSM option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation model for stock-based awards is the historical yield on U.S. Treasury securities with equivalent remaining lives. Autodesk recognizes expense only for the stock-based awards that ultimately vest. Autodesk accounts for forfeitures of stock-based awards as those forfeitures occur.Autodesk determines the grant date fair value of its share-based payment awards using a Black-Scholes Merton ("BSM") option pricing model or the quoted stock price on the date of grant, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case Autodesk uses a binomial-lattice model (e.g., Monte Carlo simulation model). The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved.
Advertising Expenses	Advertising Expenses Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.
Net (Loss) Income Per Share	Net (Loss) Income Per Share Basic net (loss) income per share is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period, excluding stock options and restricted stock. Diluted net (loss) income per share is computed based upon the weighted average shares of common shares outstanding for the period and potentially dilutive common shares, including the effect of stock options and restricted stock units under the treasury stock method.
Defined Benefit Pension Plans	Defined Benefit Pension Plans The funded status of Autodesk's defined benefit pension plans is recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation for the fiscal years presented. The projected benefit obligation represents the actuarial present value of benefits expected to be paid upon retirement based on employee services already rendered and estimated future compensation levels. The fair value of plan assets represents the current market value of Autodesk's cumulative company and participant contributions made to the various plans in effect. Net periodic benefit cost is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and includes service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of prior service costs, and gains or losses previously recognized as a component of other comprehensive loss. Certain events, such as changes in the employee base, plan amendments, and changes in actuarial assumptions may result in a change in the defined benefit obligation and the corresponding change to other comprehensive income. Gains and losses and prior service costs not recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as they arise are recognized as a component of other comprehensive (loss) income in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income. Those gains and losses and prior service costs are subsequently amortized as a component of net periodic benefit cost over the average remaining service lives of the plan participants using a corridor approach to determine the portion of gain or loss subject to amortization. The measurement of projected benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost is based on estimates and assumptions that reflect the terms of the plans and use participant-specific information such as compensation, age and years of services, as well as certain assumptions, including estimates of discount rates, expected return of plan assets, rate of compensation increases, interest rates, and mortality rates.
Accounting Standards	Accounting Standards in Fiscal 2018 With the exception of those discussed below, there have been no recent changes in accounting pronouncements issued by FASB or adopted by the Company during the fiscal year ended January 31, 2018, that are of significance, or potential significance, to the Company. Accounting Standards Adopted Autodesk adopted FASB's Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-04 ("ASU 2017-04"), "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment" during the three months ended April 30, 2017. The ASU simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairment by removing Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. Under current guidance, Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test requires entities to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. The carrying value in excess of the implied fair value is recognized as goodwill impairment. Under the new standard, goodwill impairment is recognized based on Step 1 of the current guidance, which calculates the carrying value in excess of the reporting unit’s fair value. The new guidance is required to be applied on a prospective basis and as such, Autodesk used the simplified test in its annual fourth fiscal quarter testing. ASU 2017-04 did not have a material impact on Autodesk's consolidated financial statements. Recently Issued Accounting Standards But Not Yet Adopted In February 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-02 (“ASU 2018-02”), “Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” The amendment allows entities to reclassify stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. The amendment only impacts the income tax effect of the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act but does not affect the underlying guidance that requires that the effect of a change in tax laws or rates be included in income from continuing operations. The amendment is effective for Autodesk fiscal year beginning February 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition, and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption. In August 2017, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-12 ("ASU 2017-12"), "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities." The targeted amendments help simplify certain aspects of hedge accounting and result in a more accurate portrayal of the economics of an entity’s risk management activities in its financial statements. For cash flow and net investment hedges as of the adoption date, the guidance requires a modified retrospective approach. The amended presentation and disclosure guidance is required only prospectively. The amendments are effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition, and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption. In February 2017, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-05 ("ASU 2017-05"), "Other Income– Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets." The ASU, among other things, clarifies the scope of the derecognition of nonfinancial assets, the definition of in substance financial assets, and impacts the accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets by requiring full gain recognition upon the sale. The amendments are effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. The guidance may be applied retrospectively for all periods presented or retrospectively with a cumulative-effect adjustment at the date of adoption. The effect of the implementation will depend upon the nature of the Company's future acquisitions or dispositions, if any. The adoption of the guidance would not have had a material impact on acquisitions prior to the current period and on the Company's consolidated statements of financial condition and results of operations. In January 2017, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-01 ("ASU 2017-01"), "Business Combinations: Clarifying the Definition of a Business" which provides a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is considered a business. The amendments will be effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. The new guidance is required to be applied on a prospective basis. The effect of the implementation will depend upon the nature of the Company's future acquisitions, if any. In October 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-16 ("ASU 2016-16"), “Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory” which requires that entities recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, when the transfer occurs. The amendments will be effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. The new guidance is required to be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Autodesk does not believe the ASU will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13 ("ASU 2016-13") regarding ASC Topic 326, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses," which modifies the measurement of expected credit losses of certain financial instruments. Autodesk plans to adopt ASU 2016-13 as of the effective date which represents Autodesk’s fiscal year beginning February 1, 2020. Autodesk does not believe the ASU will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. In February 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02 ("ASU 2016-02") regarding ASC Topic 842, "Leases." The amendments in this ASU require balance sheet recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for leases classified as operating leases, with an optional policy election to not recognize lease assets and lease liabilities for leases with a term of 12 months or less. The amendments also require new disclosures, including qualitative and quantitative requirements, providing additional information about the amounts recorded in the financial statements. Autodesk plans to adopt ASU 2016-02 in Autodesk’s fiscal year beginning February 1, 2019. The amendments require a modified retrospective approach with optional practical expedients. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition, and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption. In January 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-01 ("ASU 2016-01") regarding ASC Topic 825-10, "Financial Instruments - Overall." The amendments address certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments, and require equity securities to be measured at fair value, unless the measurement alternative method has been elected, with changes in fair value recognized through net income. The amendments also simplify the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment for impairment quarterly at each reporting period. The amendments in ASU 2016-01 will be effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. An entity should apply the amendments by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption, with prospective adoption of the amendments related to equity securities without readily determinable fair values existing as of the date of adoption. Autodesk does not believe ASU 2016-01 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC Topic 606),” which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in "Revenue Recognition (ASC Topic 605)." ASU 2014-09 provides principles for recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-14 to defer the effective date by one year with early adoption permitted as of the original effective date. In addition, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-08, Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-10, Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-12, and Accounting Standard Update No. 2016-20 in March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, and December 2016, respectively, to help provide interpretive clarifications on the new guidance in ASC Topic 606. Autodesk will adopt ASU 2014-09 as of February 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective transition method. The Company's implementation efforts are substantially complete. The Company has concluded that the desktop software and related cloud services that are included in the majority of its product subscription offerings and enterprise arrangements are not distinct in the context of the contract as they are considered highly interrelated and represent a single combined performance obligation that should be recognized over time. Therefore, the new standard will not result in a material change in the timing and amount of the recognition of revenue for the majority of the Company's product subscription offerings and enterprise arrangements. One impact of the new standard relates to product subscriptions that do not incorporate substantial cloud services. A limited number of Autodesk's product subscriptions do not incorporate substantial cloud services, and under ASU 2014-09, will be recognized as distinct license and service performance obligations. Currently, under ASC Topic 605, licenses sold with undelivered elements without VSOE are recognized ratably over the term of the undelivered elements. Under ASC Topic 606, Autodesk is no longer required to establish VSOE to recognize software license revenue separately from the other elements and will recognize software licenses once the customer obtains control of the license, which is generally upon delivery of the license. Therefore, revenue allocated to the licenses in these offerings under Topic 606 will be recognized at a point in time instead of over the contract term. While the Company is still evaluating, Autodesk believes the impact of the change to the timing of revenue recognition is expected to have a balance sheet pre-tax impact at the date of adoption of approximately $80 - $100 million reduction to the deferred revenue balance. Another significant provision under ASU 2014-09 includes the capitalization and amortization of costs associated with obtaining a contract, most significantly sales commissions. The amortization period for the Company's deferred costs will be recognized over the estimated period of benefit. The Company expects there to be a balance sheet pre-tax impact at the date of adoption recognizing the deferred sales commission capitalization costs of approximately $102 - $112 million.

Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Jan. 31, 2018

Autodesk, Inc. (“Autodesk” or the “Company”) is a world leading design software and services company, offering customers productive business solutions through powerful technology products and services. The Company serves customers in the architecture, engineering, and construction; manufacturing; and digital media, consumer, and entertainment industries. The Company’s sophisticated software products, offered through a hybrid of desktop and cloud functionality, enable its customers to experience their ideas before they are real by allowing them to imagine, design, and create their ideas and to visualize, simulate, and analyze real-world performance early in the design process by creating digital prototypes. These capabilities allow Autodesk’s customers to foster innovation, optimize and improve their designs, help save time and money, improve quality, and collaborate with others. Autodesk software products are sold globally, both directly to customers and through a network of resellers and distributors.

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Autodesk and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Change in Presentation

During the first quarter of fiscal 2018, the Company changed its historical presentation of its revenue and cost of revenue categories. Previously, the Company presented revenue and cost of revenue on two lines: subscription, and license and other. Included within subscription was maintenance revenue for all of the Company's software products and revenue for the Company's cloud service offerings. License and other revenue included product license revenue, standalone consulting services, and other immaterial items. Also, included within license and other revenue was an allocation of the estimated value of the software license from the Company's term-based product subscriptions and enterprise offerings, which contain a software license, maintenance and cloud services. For these arrangements, as there is no vendor-specific-objective evidence ("VSOE") for the related maintenance, the arrangement consideration was allocated between the license and maintenance deliverables based on best estimated selling prices in our consolidated statements of operations. The Company performed the allocation because it provided a meaningful presentation to investors based on the Company's then current product mix.

As part of the Company's technological and business model transition, the Company discontinued the sale of most of its perpetual licenses, transitioning away from selling a mix of perpetual licenses and term-based product subscriptions to a single subscription model involving a combined hybrid offering of desktop software and cloud functionality, which provides a device-independent, collaborative design workflow for designers and their stakeholders. Fiscal 2018 marks the first full year in the Company's history that it sold substantially all term-based product subscriptions. To better reflect this shift in its business, the Company adopted a revised presentation in the first quarter of fiscal 2018, including the separation of subscription revenue and maintenance revenue on distinct line items on the Company's consolidated statement of operations.

Subscription revenue now consists of our term-based product subscriptions, cloud service offerings, and flexible enterprise business arrangements. Note that with the change in presentation of revenue in the Company’s consolidated statement of operations in fiscal 2018, term-based product subscriptions and flexible enterprise business arrangements are classified and presented in a single line item.

Maintenance revenue is presented as a separate line item in the new presentation and consists of revenue from the Company's existing maintenance plan agreements and related renewals.

License and other revenue will continue to be presented as a separate line item and include any residual perpetual licenses sold, standalone consulting services, and other immaterial items.

In connection with these revisions, the Company also revised its cost of revenue classification to present cost of subscription and maintenance revenue and amortization of developed technology separately. Cost of license and other revenue will continue to be presented as a separate line item. This change in presentation does not affect the Company's total net revenues, total cost of net revenues or overall gross margin.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in Autodesk’s consolidated financial statements and notes thereto. These estimates are based on information available as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. On a regular basis, management evaluates these estimates and assumptions. Actual results may differ materially from these estimates.

Examples of significant estimates and assumptions made by management involve the determination of the fair value of acquired assets and liabilities, goodwill, financial instruments including strategic investments, long-lived assets and other intangible assets, the realizability of deferred tax assets, and the fair value of stock awards. The Company also makes assumptions, judgments, and estimates in determining the accruals for uncertain tax positions, provisional estimates associated with the December 22, 2017 enactment of the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Act"), variable compensation, partner incentive programs, product returns reserves, allowances for doubtful accounts, asset retirement obligations, and legal contingencies.

Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions

The assets and liabilities of Autodesk’s foreign subsidiaries are translated from their respective functional currencies into U.S. dollars at the rates in effect at the balance sheet date, and revenue and expense amounts are translated at exchange rates that approximate those rates in effect during the period in which the underlying transactions occur. Foreign currency translation adjustments are recorded as other comprehensive (loss) income.

Gains and losses realized from foreign currency transactions, those transactions denominated in currencies other than the foreign subsidiary’s functional currency, are included in interest and other income, net. Monetary assets and liabilities are remeasured using foreign currency exchange rates at the end of the period, and non-monetary assets are remeasured based on historical exchange rates.

Derivative Financial Instruments

Autodesk accounts for its derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet and carries them at fair value. Gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value are accounted for depending on the use of the derivative and whether it is designated and qualifies for hedge accounting. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are adjusted to fair value through earnings.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Autodesk considers all highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are recorded at cost, which approximates fair value.

Marketable Securities and Privately Held Company Investments

Marketable securities are stated at fair value. Marketable securities maturing within one year that are not restricted are classified as current assets. Substantially all marketable debt and equity investments held by Autodesk are classified as current based on the nature of the investments and their availability for use in current operations.

Autodesk determines the appropriate classification of its marketable securities at the time of purchase and re-evaluates such classification as of each balance sheet date. Autodesk carries all “available-for-sale securities” at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, reported in stockholders’ equity (deficit) until disposition or maturity. Autodesk carries all “trading securities” at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses, recorded in “Interest and other income, net” in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Operations. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific-identification method.

Autodesk regularly invests in non-marketable debt and equity securities of privately held companies. The carrying values of such investments are included in other long-term assets. For the majority of our privately held company investments, we use the cost method of accounting.

All of Autodesk’s marketable securities and privately held company investments are subject to a periodic impairment review. The Company recognizes an impairment charge when a decline in the fair value of its investments below the cost basis is judged to be other-than-temporary. Autodesk considers various factors in determining whether to recognize an impairment charge, including the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than Autodesk’s cost basis, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee, and Autodesk’s intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in the market value.

Accounts Receivable, Net

Allowances for uncollectible trade receivables are based upon historical loss patterns, the number of days that billings are past due, and an evaluation of the potential risk of loss associated with problem accounts.

As part of the indirect channel model, Autodesk has a partner incentive program that uses quarterly attainment of monetary rewards to motivate distributors and resellers to achieve mutually agreed upon business goals in a specified time period. A portion of these incentives reduce license and other revenue in the current period. The remainder, which relates to incentives on our Subscription Program, is recorded as a reduction to deferred revenue in the period the subscription transaction is billed and subsequently recognized as a reduction to subscription revenue over the contract period. These incentive balance

s do not require significant assumptions or judgments. Depending on how the payments are made, the reserves associated with the partner incentive program are treated on the balance sheet as either contra account receivable or accounts payable.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Autodesk places its cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities in highly liquid instruments with, and in the custody of, multiple diversified financial institutions globally with high credit ratings and limits the amounts invested with any one institution, type of security, and issuer.

Autodesk’s primary commercial banking relationship is with Citigroup Inc. and its global affiliates. Citibank, N.A., an affiliate of Citigroup, is one of the lead lenders and an agent in the syndicate of Autodesk’s $400.0 million line of credit facility. It is Autodesk’s policy to limit the amounts invested with any one institution by type of security and issuer.

The bank counterparties to the derivative contracts potentially expose Autodesk to credit-related losses in the event of their nonperformance. However, to mitigate that risk, Autodesk only contracts with counterparties who meet the Company's minimum requirements under its counterparty risk assessment process. Autodesk monitors counterparty risk on at least a quarterly basis and will adjust its exposure to various counterparties as necessary. Autodesk generally enters into master netting arrangements, which reduce credit risk by permitting net settlement of transactions with the same counterparty. However, Autodesk does not have any master netting arrangements in place with collateral features.

Autodesk’s accounts receivable are derived from sales to a large number of resellers, distributors, and direct customers in the Americas; EMEA; and APAC geographies. Autodesk performs ongoing evaluations of these partners' financial condition and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary, but generally does not require collateral from such parties.

Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net

Costs incurred for computer software developed or obtained for internal use are capitalized for application development activities, if material, and immediately expensed for preliminary project activities and post-implementation activities. These capitalized costs are amortized over the software’s expected useful life, which is generally three years.Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture, and Leasehold Improvements, Net

Computer equipment, software, and furniture are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from three to five years. Leasehold improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of their estimated useful lives or the lease term.

Software Development Costs

Software development costs incurred prior to the establishment of technological feasibility are included in research and development expenses. Autodesk defines establishment of technological feasibility as the completion of a working model. Software development costs incurred subsequent to the establishment of technological feasibility through the period of general market availability of the products are capitalized and generally amortized over a three-year period, if material.

Other Intangible Assets, Net

Other intangible assets include developed technologies, customer relationships, trade names, patents, user lists and the related accumulated amortization. These assets are shown as “Developed technologies, net” and as part of “Other assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The majority of Autodesk’s other intangible assets are amortized to expense over the estimated economic life of the product, which ranges from two to ten years.

Goodwill

Goodwill consists of the excess of the consideration transferred over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. Autodesk tests goodwill for impairment annually in its fourth fiscal quarter or more often if circumstances indicate a potential impairment may exist, or if events have affected the composition of reporting units.

When goodwill is assessed for impairment, Autodesk has the option to perform an assessment of qualitative factors of impairment (“optional assessment”) prior to necessitating a quantitative impairment test. Should the optional assessment be used for any given fiscal year, qualitative factors to consider include cost factors; financial performance; legal, regulatory, contractual, political, business, or other factors; entity specific factors; industry and market considerations, macroeconomic conditions, and other relevant events and factors affecting the reporting unit. If, after assessing the totality of events or

circumstances, it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value, then performing the quantitative impairment test is unnecessary.

The quantitative impairment test is necessary when either Autodesk does not use the optional assessment or, as a result of the optional assessment, it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value.

As described in the "Accounting Standards Adopted" section of Note 1, Autodesk early adopted ASU 2017-04, which simplifies the subsequent measurement of goodwill to eliminate Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test, removing the need to determine the implied fair value of goodwill and comparing it to the carrying amount of that goodwill to measure the impairment loss, if any. In situations in which an entity's reporting unit is publicly traded, the fair value of the Company may be approximated by its market capitalization, in performing the quantitative impairment test.

Goodwill impairment exists when the estimated fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying value. If impairment exists, the carrying value of the goodwill is reduced to fair value through an impairment charge recorded in the Company's statements of operations. The process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill is subjective and requires significant judgment at many points during the analysis. The value of Autodesk’s goodwill could also be impacted by future adverse changes such as: (i) declines in Autodesk’s actual financial results, (ii) a sustained decline in Autodesk’s market capitalization, (iii) a significant slowdown in the worldwide economy or the industries Autodesk serves, or (iv) changes in Autodesk’s business strategy.

For the annual impairment test, Autodesk's market capitalization was substantially in excess of the carrying value of the Company as of January 31, 2018. Accordingly, Autodesk has determined there was no goodwill impairment during the year ended January 31, 2018. In addition, Autodesk did not recognize any goodwill impairment losses in fiscal 2017 or 2016.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

At least annually or more frequently as circumstances dictate, Autodesk reviews its long-lived assets for impairment whenever impairment indicators exist. Autodesk continually monitors events and changes in circumstances that could indicate the carrying amounts of its long-lived assets may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances occur, Autodesk assesses recoverability of these assets. Recoverability is measured by comparison of the carrying amounts of the assets to the future undiscounted cash flow the assets are expected to generate. If the long-lived assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is equal to the amount by which the carrying value of the assets exceeds its fair market value. Autodesk did not recognize any material impairments of long-lived assets during the fiscal years ended January 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively.

In addition to the recoverability assessments, Autodesk routinely reviews the remaining estimated useful lives of its long-lived assets. Any reduction in the useful life assumption will result in increased depreciation and amortization expense in the quarter when such determinations are made, as well as in subsequent quarters.

Deferred Tax Assets

Deferred tax assets arise primarily from tax credits, net operating losses, and timing differences for reserves, accrued liabilities, stock options, deferred revenue, purchased technologies, and capitalized intangibles, partially offset by U.S. deferred tax liabilities on acquired intangibles, and valuation allowances against U.S. and foreign deferred tax assets. Autodesk performed a quarterly assessment of the recoverability of these net deferred tax assets and believe it will generate sufficient

future taxable income in appropriate tax jurisdictions to realize the net deferred tax assets. They are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce gross deferred tax assets to the amount that is "more likely than not" to be realized.

Revenue Recognition

Autodesk recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and collection is probable.

For multiple element arrangements containing only software and software-related elements, Autodesk allocates the sales price among each of the deliverables using the residual method, under which a portion of the total arrangement consideration is allocated to undelivered elements based on their vendor-specific objective evidence (“VSOE”) of fair value and the remainder or residual of the total consideration is recognized as revenue for the delivered elements. VSOE is the price charged when an element is sold separately or a price set by management with the relevant authority. If Autodesk does not have VSOE of an undelivered element, revenue recognition is deferred on the entire sales arrangement until all elements for which Autodesk does not have VSOE are delivered. If Autodesk does not have VSOE for undelivered product subscriptions, maintenance or services, the total consideration for the arrangement is recognized ratably over the longest contractual service period in the arrangement.

For multiple element arrangements involving non-software elements, including cloud subscription services, our revenue recognition policy is based upon the accounting guidance contained in ASC 605, Revenue Recognition. For these arrangements, Autodesk first allocates the total arrangement consideration based on the relative selling prices of the software group of elements as a whole and to the non-software elements. Autodesk then further allocates consideration within the software group to the respective elements within that group using the residual method as described above. Autodesk exercises judgment and uses estimates in connection with the determination of the amount of revenue to be recognized in each accounting period.

Autodesk allocates the total arrangement consideration among the various elements based on a selling price hierarchy. The selling price for a deliverable is based on its VSOE if available, third-party evidence ("TPE") if VSOE is not available, or the best estimated selling price ("BESP") if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. BESP represents the price at which Autodesk would transact for the deliverable if it were sold regularly on a standalone basis. To establish BESP for those elements for which neither VSOE nor TPE are available, Autodesk performs a quantitative analysis of pricing data points for historical standalone transactions involving such elements for a twelve-month period. As part of this analysis, Autodesk monitors and evaluates the BESP against actual pricing to ensure that it continues to represent a reasonable estimate of the standalone selling price, considering several other external and internal factors including, but not limited to, pricing and discounting practices, contractually stated prices, the geographies in which Autodesk offers products and services, and the type of customer (i.e. distributor, value-added reseller, and direct end user, among others). Autodesk analyzes BESP at least annually or on a more frequent basis if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis, or if significant selling price variances are experienced.

In situations when Autodesk has multiple contracts with a single counterparty, Autodesk uses the guidance in ASC 985-605 to evaluate both the form and the substance of the arrangements to determine if they should be combined and accounted for as one arrangement or as separate arrangements.

Autodesk’s assessment of the likelihood of collection is also a critical factor in determining the timing of revenue recognition. If Autodesk does not believe that collection is probable, the revenue will be deferred until payment is received.

Autodesk's maintenance revenue consists of renewal fees for existing maintenance plan agreements that were initially purchased with a perpetual software license. Under the maintenance plan, customers are eligible to receive unspecified upgrades, when and if available, and technical support. Autodesk recognizes maintenance revenue ratably over the term of the maintenance agreement, which is generally between one and three years.

Autodesk's subscription revenue consists of term-based product subscriptions, cloud service offerings, and flexible enterprise business arrangements. With Autodesk's subscription plan, customers can use Autodesk software anytime, anywhere, and get access to the latest updates to previous versions. Revenue from these arrangements is recognized ratably over the contract term. Revenue for Autodesk's cloud service offerings is recognized ratably over the contract term, commencing with the date Autodesk's service is made available to customers and when all other revenue recognition criteria have been satisfied.

License and other revenue consists of two components: license revenue and other revenue. License revenue includes software license revenue from the sale of perpetual licenses. Other revenue includes revenue such as standalone consulting and training, and is recognized over time as the services are performed.

Taxes Collected from Customers

Autodesk nets taxes collected from customers against those remitted to government authorities in the consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, taxes collected from customers are not reported as revenue.

Shipping and Handling Cost

Shipping and Handling Costs

Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of revenue for all periods presented.

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

Autodesk estimates expected volatility for stock-based awards based on the average of the following two measures: (1) a measure of historical volatility in the trading market for the Company’s common stock, and (2) the implied volatility of traded forward call options to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock. The expected volatility for performance stock units subject to market conditions includes the expected volatility of Autodesk's peer companies within the S&P Computer Software Select Index or S&P North American Technology Software Index with a market capitalization over $2.00 billion, depending on the award type.

Autodesk estimates the expected life of stock-based awards using both exercise behavior and post-vesting termination behavior as well as consideration of outstanding options. The range of expected lives of ESPP awards are based upon the four, six-month exercise periods within a 24-month offering period.

Autodesk did not pay cash dividends in fiscal 2018, 2017, or 2016 and does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Consequently, an expected dividend yield of zero is used in the BSM option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation model.

The risk-free interest rate used in the BSM option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation model for stock-based awards is the historical yield on U.S. Treasury securities with equivalent remaining lives.

Autodesk recognizes expense only for the stock-based awards that ultimately vest. Autodesk accounts for forfeitures of stock-based awards as those forfeitures occur.Autodesk determines the grant date fair value of its share-based payment awards using a Black-Scholes Merton ("BSM") option pricing model or the quoted stock price on the date of grant, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case Autodesk uses a binomial-lattice model (e.g., Monte Carlo simulation model). The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved.

Advertising Expenses

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.

Net (Loss) Income Per Share

Basic net (loss) income per share is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period, excluding stock options and restricted stock. Diluted net (loss) income per share is computed based upon the weighted average shares of common shares outstanding for the period and potentially dilutive common shares, including the effect of stock options and restricted stock units under the treasury stock method.

Defined Benefit Pension Plans

The funded status of Autodesk's defined benefit pension plans is recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The funded status is measured as the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligation for the fiscal years presented. The projected benefit obligation represents the actuarial present value of benefits expected to be paid upon retirement based on employee services already rendered and estimated future compensation levels. The fair value of plan assets represents the current market value of Autodesk's cumulative company and participant contributions made to the various plans in effect.

Net periodic benefit cost is recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and includes service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, amortization of prior service costs, and gains or losses previously recognized as a component of other comprehensive loss. Certain events, such as changes in the employee base, plan amendments, and changes in actuarial assumptions may result in a change in the defined benefit obligation and the corresponding change to other comprehensive income.

Gains and losses and prior service costs not recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in the Consolidated Statements of Operations as they arise are recognized as a component of other comprehensive (loss) income in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income. Those gains and losses and prior service costs are subsequently amortized as a component of net periodic benefit cost over the average remaining service lives of the plan participants using a corridor approach to determine the portion of gain or loss subject to amortization.

The measurement of projected benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost is based on estimates and assumptions that reflect the terms of the plans and use participant-specific information such as compensation, age and years of services, as well as certain assumptions, including estimates of discount rates, expected return of plan assets, rate of compensation increases, interest rates, and mortality rates.

Accounting Standards

Accounting Standards in Fiscal 2018

With the exception of those discussed below, there have been no recent changes in accounting pronouncements issued by FASB or adopted by the Company during the fiscal year ended January 31, 2018, that are of significance, or potential significance, to the Company.

Accounting Standards Adopted

Autodesk adopted FASB's Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-04 ("ASU 2017-04"), "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment" during the three months ended April 30, 2017. The ASU simplifies the accounting for goodwill impairment by removing Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. Under current guidance, Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test requires entities to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit. The carrying value in excess of the implied fair value is recognized as goodwill impairment. Under the new standard, goodwill impairment is recognized based on Step 1 of the current guidance, which calculates the carrying value in excess of the reporting unit’s fair value. The new guidance is required to be applied on a prospective basis and as such, Autodesk used the simplified test in its annual fourth fiscal quarter testing. ASU 2017-04 did not have a material impact on Autodesk's consolidated financial statements.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards But Not Yet Adopted

In February 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-02 (“ASU 2018-02”), “Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income.” The amendment allows entities to reclassify stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings. The amendment only impacts the income tax effect of the passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act but does not affect the underlying guidance that requires that the effect of a change in tax laws or rates be included in income from continuing operations. The amendment is effective for Autodesk fiscal year beginning February 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition, and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption.

In August 2017, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-12 ("ASU 2017-12"), "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities." The targeted amendments help simplify certain aspects of hedge accounting and result in a more accurate portrayal of the economics of an entity’s risk management activities in its financial statements. For cash flow and net investment hedges as of the adoption date, the guidance requires a modified retrospective approach. The amended presentation and disclosure guidance is required only prospectively. The amendments are effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition, and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption.

In February 2017, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-05 ("ASU 2017-05"), "Other Income– Gains and Losses from the Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets (Subtopic 610-20): Clarifying the Scope of Asset Derecognition Guidance and Accounting for Partial Sales of Nonfinancial Assets." The ASU, among other things, clarifies the scope of the derecognition of nonfinancial assets, the definition of in substance financial assets, and impacts the accounting for partial sales of nonfinancial assets by requiring full gain recognition upon the sale. The amendments are effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. The guidance may be applied retrospectively for all periods presented or retrospectively with a cumulative-effect adjustment at the date of adoption. The effect of the implementation will depend upon the nature of the Company's future acquisitions or dispositions, if any. The adoption of the guidance would not have had a material impact on acquisitions prior to the current period and on the Company's consolidated statements of financial condition and results of operations.

In January 2017, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-01 ("ASU 2017-01"), "Business Combinations: Clarifying the Definition of a Business" which provides a more robust framework to use in determining when a set of assets and activities is considered a business. The amendments will be effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. The new guidance is required to be applied on a prospective basis. The effect of the implementation will depend upon the nature of the Company's future acquisitions, if any.

In October 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-16 ("ASU 2016-16"), “Income Taxes: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other than Inventory” which requires that entities recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, when the transfer occurs. The amendments will be effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. The new guidance is required to be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. Autodesk does not believe the ASU will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13 ("ASU 2016-13") regarding ASC Topic 326, "Financial Instruments - Credit Losses," which modifies the measurement of expected credit losses of certain financial instruments. Autodesk plans to adopt ASU 2016-13 as of the effective date which represents Autodesk’s fiscal year beginning February 1, 2020. Autodesk does not believe the ASU will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In February 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02 ("ASU 2016-02") regarding ASC Topic 842, "Leases." The amendments in this ASU require balance sheet recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for leases classified as operating leases, with an optional policy election to not recognize lease assets and lease liabilities for leases with a term of 12 months or less. The amendments also require new disclosures, including qualitative and quantitative requirements, providing additional information about the amounts recorded in the financial statements. Autodesk plans to adopt ASU 2016-02 in Autodesk’s fiscal year beginning February 1, 2019. The amendments require a modified retrospective approach with optional practical expedients. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition, and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption.

In January 2016, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-01 ("ASU 2016-01") regarding ASC Topic 825-10, "Financial Instruments - Overall." The amendments address certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation, and disclosure of financial instruments, and require equity securities to be measured at fair value, unless the measurement alternative method has been elected, with changes in fair value recognized through net income. The amendments also simplify the impairment assessment of equity investments without readily determinable fair values by requiring a qualitative assessment for impairment quarterly at each reporting period. The amendments in ASU 2016-01 will be effective for Autodesk's fiscal year beginning February 1, 2018. An entity should apply the amendments by means of a cumulative-effect adjustment to the balance sheet as of the beginning of the fiscal year of adoption, with prospective adoption of the amendments related to equity securities without readily determinable fair values existing as of the date of adoption. Autodesk does not believe ASU 2016-01 will have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.

In May 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC Topic 606),” which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in "Revenue Recognition (ASC Topic 605)." ASU 2014-09 provides principles for recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In August 2015, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-14 to defer the effective date by one year with early adoption permitted as of the original effective date. In addition, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-08, Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-10, Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-12, and Accounting Standard Update No. 2016-20 in March 2016, April 2016, May 2016, and December 2016, respectively, to help provide interpretive clarifications on the new guidance in ASC Topic 606.

Autodesk will adopt ASU 2014-09 as of February 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective transition method. The Company's implementation efforts are substantially complete.

The Company has concluded that the desktop software and related cloud services that are included in the majority of its product subscription offerings and enterprise arrangements are not distinct in the context of the contract as they are considered highly interrelated and represent a single combined performance obligation that should be recognized over time. Therefore, the new standard will not result in a material change in the timing and amount of the recognition of revenue for the majority of the Company's product subscription offerings and enterprise arrangements.

One impact of the new standard relates to product subscriptions that do not incorporate substantial cloud services. A limited number of Autodesk's product subscriptions do not incorporate substantial cloud services, and under ASU 2014-09, will be recognized as distinct license and service performance obligations. Currently, under ASC Topic 605, licenses sold with undelivered elements without VSOE are recognized ratably over the term of the undelivered elements. Under ASC Topic 606, Autodesk is no longer required to establish VSOE to recognize software license revenue separately from the other elements and will recognize software licenses once the customer obtains control of the license, which is generally upon delivery of the license. Therefore, revenue allocated to the licenses in these offerings under Topic 606 will be recognized at a point in time instead of over the contract term. While the Company is still evaluating, Autodesk believes the impact of the change to the timing of revenue recognition is expected to have a balance sheet pre-tax impact at the date of adoption of approximately $80 - $100 million reduction to the deferred revenue balance.

Another significant provision under ASU 2014-09 includes the capitalization and amortization of costs associated with obtaining a contract, most significantly sales commissions. The amortization period for the Company's deferred costs will be

recognized over the estimated period of benefit. The Company expects there to be a balance sheet pre-tax impact at the date of adoption recognizing the deferred sales commission capitalization costs of approximately $102 - $112 million.