Stock-Based Compensation

9 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2019

Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]

Stock-based compensation expense reflects the fair value of stock-based awards, less the present value of expected dividends, measured at the grant date and recognized over the relevant service period. We estimate the fair value of each stock-based award on the measurement date using the current market price of the stock, the Black-Scholes option valuation model, or the Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model.

During fiscal year 2017, we granted performance-based restricted stock units that include a three-year market condition under a Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) where the performance measurement period is three years. Vesting of the LTIP awards is based on our level of attainment of specified total stockholder return ("TSR") targets relative to the percentage appreciation of a specified index of companies for the respective three-year periods and is also subject to the continued employment of the grantees. In order to estimate the fair value of such awards, we used a Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model.

During the first quarter of fiscal years 2018 and 2019, we granted performance-based restricted stock units that include two performance metrics under the LTIP where the performance measurement period is three years. Vesting of the 2018 and 2019 LTIP awards is as follows: (i) 50% is based on the three-year market condition as described above (TSR), and (ii) 50% is based on achievement of a three-year cumulative performance condition (operating income). In order to estimate the fair value of such awards, we used a Monte Carlo Simulation valuation model for the market condition portion of the award and used the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant, less the present value of expected dividends, for the portion related to the performance condition.

The Black-Scholes and Monte Carlo Simulation valuation models incorporate assumptions as to stock price volatility, the expected life of options or awards, a risk-free interest rate and dividend yield. We recognize stock-based compensation expense related to options and restricted stock units on a straight-line basis over the service period of the award, which is generally 4 years for options and 3 years for restricted stock units. We recognize stock-based compensation expense related to our employee stock purchase plan using an accelerated attribution method.

The following table provides the classification of stock-based compensation as reflected on our condensed consolidated statements of operations (in thousands):



	Three Months Ended					Nine Months Ended
	August 31, 2019		August 31, 2018			August 31, 2019		August 31, 2018
Cost of maintenance and services	$	317	$	(96	)	$	811	$	419
Sales and marketing	968		762			3,205		2,127
Product development	1,529		1,744			5,393		5,774
General and administrative	2,676		2,156			8,002		6,396
Total stock-based compensation	$	5,490	$	4,566		$	17,411	$	14,716