Table of Contents

     
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
(Mark One)
 
ý     QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017
or
o        TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from                      to                      
 
Commission file number: 001-34630
 
ASPEN TECHNOLOGY, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 04-2739697
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or
organization)
 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
20 Crosby Drive  
Bedford, Massachusetts 01730
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(781) 221-6400
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days:   Yes ý No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes ý No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” andfiler," “smaller reporting company”company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 Large accelerated filerý 
Accelerated filer       o
 
Non-accelerated filer  o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Smaller reporting company      o
Emerging growth company      o
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.    o



Table of Contents

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act): Yes o No ý
As of January 19,April 25, 2017, there were 76,072,18174,495,970 shares of the registrant’s common stock (par value $0.10 per share) outstanding.
     


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
  Page
  
   
   
  
   
  
 
aspenONE is one of our registered trademarks. All other trade names, trademarks and service marks appearing in this Form 10-Q are the property of their respective owners.
 
Our fiscal year ends on June 30, and references to a specific fiscal year are to the twelve months ended June 30 of such year (for example, “fiscal 2017” refers to the year ending June 30, 2017).

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
Item 1.    Financial Statements.
 
Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
 
ASPEN TECHNOLOGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 2015 2016 20152017 2016 2017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands, Except per Share Data)(Dollars in Thousands, Except per Share Data)
Revenue: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Subscription and software$112,916
 $110,126
 $226,360
 $221,985
$111,717
 $111,722
 $338,077
 $333,707
Services and other7,017
 9,025
 13,623
 17,462
7,560
 7,495
 21,184
 24,957
Total revenue119,933
 119,151
 239,983
 239,447
119,277
 119,217
 359,261
 358,664
Cost of revenue: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Subscription and software5,176
 4,967
 10,245
 10,209
5,521
 5,266
 15,766
 15,475
Services and other6,403
 6,921
 12,839
 14,651
6,746
 6,754
 19,586
 21,405
Total cost of revenue11,579
 11,888
 23,084
 24,860
12,267
 12,020
 35,352
 36,880
Gross profit108,354
 107,263
 216,899
 214,587
107,010
 107,197
 323,909
 321,784
Operating expenses: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Selling and marketing21,829
 21,178
 43,854
 43,614
22,269
 23,090
 66,123
 66,704
Research and development18,597
 15,981
 37,229
 32,578
20,348
 17,820
 57,577
 50,398
General and administrative11,863
 13,805
 25,020
 26,667
12,120
 15,606
 37,140
 42,273
Total operating expenses, net52,289
 50,964
 106,103
 102,859
Total operating expenses54,737
 56,516
 160,840
 159,375
Income from operations56,065
 56,299
 110,796
 111,728
52,273
 50,681
 163,069
 162,409
Interest income216
 71
 488
 153
176
 90
 665
 243
Interest expense(892) (13) (1,762) (14)
Other income (expense), net697
 (157) 1,344
 739
Interest (expense)(959) (330) (2,721) (344)
Other (expense) income, net(56) (2,686) 1,287
 (1,947)
Income before provision for income taxes56,086
 56,200
 110,866
 112,606
51,434
 47,755
 162,300
 160,361
Provision for income taxes19,076
 19,517
 38,855
 39,152
15,600
 14,584
 54,455
 53,736
Net income$37,010
 $36,683
 $72,011
 $73,454
$35,834
 $33,171
 $107,845
 $106,625
Net income per common share: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Basic$0.48
 $0.44
 $0.92
 $0.88
$0.47
 $0.40
 $1.40
 $1.28
Diluted$0.48
 $0.44
 $0.92
 $0.87
$0.47
 $0.40
 $1.39
 $1.27
Weighted average shares outstanding: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Basic76,905
 83,315
 77,977
 83,596
75,676
 83,081
 77,221
 83,425
Diluted77,318
 83,703
 78,356
 84,035
76,182
 83,373
 77,652
 83,842
 
See accompanying Notes to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

ASPEN TECHNOLOGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 2015 2016 20152017 2016 2017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Net income$37,010
 $36,683
 $72,011
 $73,454
$35,834
 $33,171
 $107,845
 $106,625
Other comprehensive loss: 
  
  
  
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities, net of tax effects of ($5) and $10 for the three and six months ended December 31, 2016, and $8 and ($4) for the three and six months ended December 31, 201510
 (15) (17) 8
Other comprehensive gain (loss:) 
  
  
  
Net unrealized gains (losses) on available for sale securities, net of tax effects of $(8) and $1 for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2017, and $(7) and $(11) for the three and nine months ended March 31, 201616
 13
 (1) 21
Foreign currency translation adjustments(1,717) (428) (2,620) (2,161)86
 (31) (2,534) (2,192)
Total other comprehensive loss(1,707) (443) (2,637) (2,153)
Total other comprehensive gain (loss)102
 (18) (2,535) (2,171)
Comprehensive income$35,303
 $36,240
 $69,374
 $71,301
$35,936
 $33,153
 $105,310
 $104,454
 
See accompanying Notes to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

ASPEN TECHNOLOGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited)
December 31,
2016
 June 30,
2016
March 31,
2017
 June 30,
2016
(Dollars in Thousands, Except
Share Data)
(Dollars in Thousands, Except
Share Data)
ASSETS 
  
 
  
Current assets: 
  
 
  
Cash and cash equivalents$67,026
 $318,336
$84,552
 $318,336
Short-term marketable securities72,939
 3,006
17,137
 3,006
Accounts receivable, net17,927
 20,476
35,192
 20,476
Prepaid expenses and other current assets10,409
 13,948
9,655
 13,948
Prepaid income taxes108
 5,557
516
 5,557
Total current assets168,409
 361,323
147,052
 361,323
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net14,992
 15,825
14,154
 15,825
Computer software development costs, net571
 720
505
 720
Goodwill53,033
 23,438
50,909
 23,438
Intangible assets, net21,628
 5,000
21,223
 5,000
Non-current deferred tax assets7,542
 12,236
8,868
 12,236
Other non-current assets1,182
 1,196
1,241
 1,196
Total assets$267,357
 $419,738
$243,952
 $419,738
      
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ DEFICIT 
  
 
  
Current liabilities: 
  
 
  
Accounts payable$1,289
 $3,559
$4,643
 $3,559
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities33,028
 36,105
38,342
 36,105
Income taxes payable6,800
 439
3,499
 439
Borrowings under credit agreement140,000
 140,000
140,000
 140,000
Current deferred revenue213,883
 252,520
240,791
 252,520
Total current liabilities395,000
 432,623
427,275
 432,623
Non-current deferred revenue27,452
 29,558
27,661
 29,558
Other non-current liabilities37,782
 32,591
38,511
 32,591
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)
 

 
Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock, $0.10 par value—
Authorized— 3,636 shares as of December 31, 2016 and June 30, 2016
Issued and outstanding— none as of December 31, 2016 and June 30, 2016

 
Series D redeemable convertible preferred stock, $0.10 par value—
Authorized— 3,636 shares as of March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2016
Issued and outstanding— none as of March 31, 2017 and June 30, 2016

 
Stockholders’ deficit: 
  
 
  
Common stock, $0.10 par value— Authorized—210,000,000 shares
Issued— 102,331,673 shares at December 31, 2016 and 102,031,960 shares at June 30, 2016
Outstanding— 76,244,859 shares at December 31, 2016 and 80,177,950 shares at June 30, 2016
10,233
 10,203
Common stock, $0.10 par value— Authorized—210,000,000 shares
Issued— 102,484,948 shares at March 31, 2017 and 102,031,960 shares at June 30, 2016
Outstanding— 74,661,804 shares at March 31, 2017 and 80,177,950 shares at June 30, 2016
10,249
 10,203
Additional paid-in capital672,041
 659,287
679,471
 659,287
Retained earnings (deficit)66,334
 (5,676)102,168
 (5,676)
Accumulated other comprehensive income14
 2,651
116
 2,651
Treasury stock, at cost—26,086,814 shares of common stock at December 31, 2016 and 21,854,010 shares at June 30, 2016(941,499) (741,499)
Treasury stock, at cost—27,823,144 shares of common stock at March 31, 2017 and 21,854,010 shares at June 30, 2016(1,041,499) (741,499)
Total stockholders’ deficit(192,877) (75,034)(249,495) (75,034)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit$267,357
 $419,738
$243,952
 $419,738
 
See accompanying Notes to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

ASPEN TECHNOLOGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
Six Months Ended
December 31,
Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 20152017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities: 
  
 
  
Net income$72,011
 $73,454
$107,845
 $106,625
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: 
  
 
  
Depreciation and amortization3,300
 3,020
4,993
 4,519
Net foreign currency gains(2,301) (1,444)
Net foreign currency (gains) losses(2,020) 1,421
Stock-based compensation9,630
 7,935
14,307
 12,313
Deferred income taxes182
 (133)1,169
 695
Provision for bad debts56
 176
225
 174
Tax benefits from stock-based compensation1,032
 1,831
2,344
 1,878
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation(1,032) (1,831)(2,344) (1,878)
Other non-cash operating activities40
 271
430
 257
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding initial effects of acquisitions: 
  
 
  
Accounts receivable2,494
 15,720
(14,944) 8,513
Prepaid expenses, prepaid income taxes, and other assets3,661
 1,993
3,648
 3,446
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, income taxes payable and other liabilities5,084
 (3,307)6,947
 (5,583)
Deferred revenue(40,740) (58,513)(13,562) (23,485)
Net cash provided by operating activities53,417
 39,172
109,038
 108,895
Cash flows from investing activities: 
  
 
  
Purchases of marketable securities(683,748) 
(683,748) 
Maturities of marketable securities613,379
 32,049
669,216
 52,965
Purchases of property, equipment and leasehold improvements(1,374) (1,781)(2,151) (2,530)
Acquisition related deposits
 (255,067)
Payments for business acquisitions, net of cash acquired(36,171) 
(36,171) 
Payments for capitalized computer software costs(100) 
(126) 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities(108,014) 30,268
Net cash used in investing activities(52,980) (204,632)
Cash flows from financing activities: 
  
 
  
Exercises of stock options4,843
 2,445
7,892
 2,862
Repurchases of common stock(199,584) (56,790)(295,642) (103,128)
Payments of tax withholding obligations related to restricted stock(2,786) (2,188)(4,346) (3,404)
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation1,032
 1,831
2,344
 1,878
Net cash used in financing activities(196,495) (54,702)
Proceeds from credit agreement
 140,000
Payments of credit agreement issuance costs
 (1,587)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(289,752) 36,621
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(218) (364)(90) (223)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(251,310) 14,374
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents(233,784) (59,339)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period318,336
 156,249
318,336
 156,249
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period$67,026
 $170,623
$84,552
 $96,910
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: 
  
 
  
Income taxes paid, net$25,000
 $34,497
$41,742
 $51,612
Interest paid1,579
 14
2,499
 344
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Change in purchases of property, equipment and leasehold improvements included in accounts payable and accrued expenses$506
 $(295)$111
 $(874)
Change in common stock repurchases included in accrued expenses416
 (1,724)4,358
 1,938
 

See accompanying Notes to these unaudited consolidated financial statements.

ASPEN TECHNOLOGY, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
1.  Interim Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements
 
The accompanying interim unaudited consolidated financial statements of Aspen Technology, Inc. and its subsidiaries have been prepared on the same basis as our annual consolidated financial statements.  We have omitted certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in our annual consolidated financial statements.  Such interim unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), as defined in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 270, Interim Reporting, for interim financial information and with the instructions to Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements.  It is suggested that these unaudited consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2016, which are contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as previously filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In the opinion of management, all adjustments, consisting of normal and recurring adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows at the dates and for the periods presented have been included and all intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The results of operations for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the subsequent quarter or for the full fiscal year.
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
Unless the context requires otherwise, references to we, our and us refer to Aspen Technology, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
 
2.  Significant Accounting Policies
 
(a)        Principles of Consolidation
 
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Aspen Technology, Inc. and our wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

(b)        Significant Accounting Policies 

Our significant accounting policies are described in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016. There were no material changes to our significant accounting policies during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017.
 
(c)        Revenue Recognition 
We generate revenue from the following sources: (1) Subscription and software revenue; and (2) Services and other revenue. We sell our software products to end users primarily under fixed-term licenses. We license our software products primarily through a subscription offering which we refer to as our aspenONE licensing model, which includes software maintenance and support, known as our Premier Plus SMS offering, for the entire term. Our aspenONE products are organized into three suites: 1) engineering; 2) manufacturing and supply chain, or MSC; and 3) asset performance management, or APM. The aspenONE licensing model provides customers with access to all of the products within the aspenONE suite(s) they license. We refer to these arrangements as token arrangements. Tokens are fixed units of measure. The amount of software usage is limited by the number of tokens purchased by the customer.
We also license our software through point product term arrangements, which include our Premier Plus SMS offering for the entire term, as well as perpetual license arrangements.
Four basic criteria must be satisfied before software license revenue can be recognized: persuasive evidence of an arrangement between us and an end user; delivery of our product has occurred; the fee for the product is fixed or determinable; and collection of the fee is probable.

Persuasive evidence of an arrangement—We use a signed contract as evidence of an arrangement for software licenses and SMS. For professional services we use a signed contract and a work proposal to evidence an arrangement. In cases where both a signed contract and a purchase order are required by the customer, we consider both taken together as evidence of the arrangement.
Delivery of our product—Software and the corresponding access keys are generally delivered to customers via electronic delivery or via physical medium with standard shipping terms of Free Carrier, our warehouse (i.e., FCA, AspenTech). Our software license agreements do not contain conditions for acceptance.
Fee is fixed or determinable—We assess whether a fee is fixed or determinable at the outset of the arrangement. Significant judgment is involved in making this assessment.
As a standard business practice, we offer fixed-term license arrangements, which are generally payable on an annual basis.
We cannot assert that the fees under our aspenONE licensing model and point product arrangements with Premier Plus SMS are fixed or determinable because of the rights provided to customers, economics of the arrangements, and because we do not have an established history of collecting under the terms of these contractsour arrangements going to term end date without providing concessions to customers. As a result, the amount of revenue recognized for these arrangements is limited by the amount of customer payments that become due.
Collection of fee is probable—We assess the probability of collecting from each customer at the outset of the arrangement based on a number of factors, including the customer's payment history, its current creditworthiness, economic conditions in the customer's industry and geographic location, and general economic conditions. If in our judgment collection of a fee is not probable, revenue is recognized as cash is collected, provided all other conditions for revenue recognition have been met.
Vendor-Specific Objective Evidence of Fair Value (VSOE)
 
We have established VSOE for professional services and certain training offerings, but not for our software products or our SMS offerings. We assess VSOE for SMS, professional services, and training, based on an analysis of standalone sales of the offerings using the bell-shaped curve approach. We do not have a history of selling our Premier Plus SMS offering to customers on a standalone basis, and as a result are unable to establish VSOE for this deliverable.
 
Subscription and Software Revenue
 
Subscription and software revenue consists primarily of product and related revenue from our (i) aspenONE licensing model; (ii) point product arrangements with our Premier Plus SMS offering included for the contract term; and (iii) perpetual arrangements.
 
When a customer elects to license our products under our aspenONE licensing model, our Premier Plus SMS offering is included for the entire term of the arrangement and the customer receives, for the term of the arrangement, the right to any new unspecified future software products and updates that may be introduced into the licensed aspenONE software suite. Due to our obligation to provide unspecified future software products and updates and because we do not have VSOE for our Premier Plus SMS offering, we are required to recognize revenue ratably over the term of the arrangement, once the other revenue recognition criteria noted above have been met.
 
Our point product arrangements with Premier Plus SMS include SMS for the term of the arrangement. Since we do not have VSOE for our Premier Plus SMS offering, the SMS element of our point product arrangements is not separable. As a result, revenue associated with point product arrangements with Premier Plus SMS included for the contract term is recognized ratably over the term of the arrangement, once the other revenue recognition criteria have been met.
 

Services and Other Revenue
 
Professional Services Revenue
 
Professional services are provided to customers on a time-and-materials (T&M) or fixed-price basis. We recognize professional services fees for our T&M contracts based upon hours worked and contractually agreed-upon hourly rates. Revenue from fixed-price engagements is recognized using the proportional performance method based on the ratio of costs incurred to the total estimated project costs. Project costs are typically expensed as incurred. The use of the proportional performance method is dependent upon our ability to reliably estimate the costs to complete a project. We use historical experience as a basis for future estimates to complete current projects. Additionally, we believe that costs are the best available measure of performance. Out-of-pocket expenses which are reimbursed by customers are recorded as revenue.
 
In certain circumstances, professional services revenue may be recognized over a longer time period than the period over which the services are performed. If the costs to complete a project are not estimable or the completion is uncertain, the revenue and related costs are recognized upon completion of the services. In circumstances in which professional services are sold as a single arrangement with, or in contemplation of, a new aspenONE license or point product arrangement with Premier Plus SMS, revenue is deferred and recognized on a ratable basis over the longer of (i) the period the services are performed, or (ii) the license term. When we provide professional services considered essential to the functionality of the software, we recognize the combined revenue from the sale of the software and related services using the completed contract or percentage-of-completion method.
 
We have occasionally been required to commit unanticipated additional resources to complete projects, which resulted in losses on those contracts. Provisions for estimated losses on contracts are made during the period in which such losses become probable and can be reasonably estimated.
 
Training Revenue
 
We provide training services to our customers, including on-site, Internet-based, public and customized training. Revenue is recognized in the period in which the services are performed. In circumstances in which training services are sold as a single arrangement with, or in contemplation of, a new aspenONE license or point product arrangement with Premier Plus SMS, revenue is deferred and recognized on a ratable basis over the longer of (i) the period the services are performed or (ii) the license term.
 
Deferred Revenue
 
Deferred revenue includes amounts billed or collected in advance of revenue recognition, including arrangements under the aspenONE licensing model, point product arrangements with Premier Plus SMS, professional services, and training. Deferred revenue is recorded as each invoice becomes due. 
 
Other Licensing Matters
 
Our standard licensing agreements include a product warranty provision. We have not experienced significant claims related to software warranties beyond the scope of SMS support, which we are already obligated to provide, and consequently, we have not established reserves for warranty obligations.
 
Our agreements with our customers generally require us to indemnify the customer against claims that our software infringes third-party patent, copyright, trademark or other proprietary rights. Such indemnification obligations are generally limited in a variety of industry-standard respects, including our right to replace an infringing product. As of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016, we had not experienced any material losses related to these indemnification obligations and no claims with respect thereto were outstanding. We do not expect significant claims related to these indemnification obligations, and consequently, have not established any related reserves.
 
(d)  Loss Contingencies
 
We accrue estimated liabilities for loss contingencies arising from claims, assessments, litigation and other sources when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the claim, assessment or damages can be reasonably estimated. We believe that we have sufficient accruals to cover any obligations resulting from claims, assessments or litigation that have met these criteria. Please refer to Note 16 for discussion of these matters and related liability accruals.


(e)        Foreign Currency Transactions
 
Foreign currency exchange gains and losses generated from the settlement and remeasurement of transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our subsidiaries are recognized in our results of operations as incurred as a component of other income (expense), net. Net foreign currency (losses) gains (losses) were $0.7$(0.1) million and $1.3 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and $(0.2)$(2.7) million and $0.7$(2.0) million during the three and sixnine months ended and DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively.

(f)    Research and Development Expense
We charge research and development expenditures to expense as the costs are incurred. Research and development expenses consist primarily of personnel expenses related to the creation of new products, enhancements and engineering changes to existing products and costs of acquired technology prior to establishing technological feasibility.
We acquired technology for $0.4 million and $0.3 million during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and March 31, 2016, respectively. We acquired no technology during the three months ended March 31, 2017 and DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively. At the time we acquired the technology, the projects to develop commercially available products did not meet the accounting definition of having reached technological feasibility and therefore the cost of the acquired technology was expensed as a research and development expense.
 
(g)         Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). ASU No. 2014-09 supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), and requires entities to recognize revenue when they transfer promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. As currently issued and amended, ASU 2014-09 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period, though early adoption is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. We will adopt ASU No. 2014-09 during the first quarter of fiscal 2019. Based on our preliminary assessment, the adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 will impact the timing of a portion of the revenue recognized from our term contracts. We are continuing to evaluate the impact of ASU No. 2014-09 on our consolidated financial statements and implementing accounting system changes related to the adoption.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the amendment, lessees will be required to recognize virtually all of their leases on the balance sheet, by recording a right-of-use asset and lease liability. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2016-02 on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. The amendment identifies several areas for simplification applicable to entities that issue share-based payment awards to their employees, including income tax consequences, the option to recognize gross stock compensation expense with actual forfeitures recognized when they occur, and certain classifications on the statements of cash flows. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2016-09 on our consolidated financial statements.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326). The amendment changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. Entities will be required to use a model that will result in the earlier recognition of allowances for losses for trade and other receivables, held-to-maturity debt securities, loans, and other instruments. For available-for-sale debt securities with unrealized losses, the losses will be recognized as allowances rather than as reductions in the amortized cost of the securities. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2016-13 on our consolidated financial statements.
In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230). The amendment updates the guidance as to how certain cash receipts and cash payments should be presented and classified, and is intended to reduce the existing diversity in practice. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2016-15 on our consolidated financial statements. 
In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes - Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory (Topic 740). The amendment changes accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets

other than inventory by requiring an entity to recognize the income tax consequences when a transfer occurs, instead of when

an asset is sold to an outside party. The amendment should 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. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2016-18 on our consolidated financial statements.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805) - Clarifying the Definition of a Business. The amendment changes the definition of a business to assist entities in evaluating when a set of transferred assets and activities constitutes a business. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2017-01 on our consolidated financial statements.
In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other Topics (Topic 350) - Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment. The amendment eliminates Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test and requires goodwill impairment to be measured as the amount by which a reporting unit’s carrying amount exceeds its fair value, not to exceed the carrying amount of its goodwill. The ASU is effective for annual periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of ASU No. 2017-04 on our consolidated financial statements.


3.  Marketable Securities
 
The following table summarizes the fair value, the amortized cost and unrealized holding gains (losses) on our marketable securities as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016:
 
Fair Value Cost 
Unrealized
Gains
 
Unrealized
Losses
Fair Value Cost 
Unrealized
Gains
 
Unrealized
Losses
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
December 31, 2016: 
  
  
  
March 31, 2017: 
  
  
  
U.S. corporate bonds$72,939
 $72,965
 $
 $(26)$17,137
 $17,139
 $
 $(2)
Total short-term marketable securities$72,939
 $72,965
 $
 $(26)$17,137
 $17,139
 $
 $(2)
              
June 30, 2016: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
U.S. corporate bonds$3,006
 $3,006
 $
 $
$3,006
 $3,006
 $
 $
Total short-term marketable securities$3,006
 $3,006
 $
 $
$3,006
 $3,006
 $
 $
Our marketable securities were classified as available-for-sale and reported at fair value on the unaudited consolidated balance sheets. Net unrealized gains (losses) were reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax. Realized gains (losses) on investments were recognized in earnings as incurred. Our investments consisted primarily of investment grade fixed income corporate debt securities with maturity dates ranging from JanuaryApril 2017 through May 2017 as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and August 2016 as of June 30, 2016.
 
4.   Fair Value
 
We determine fair value by utilizing a fair value hierarchy that ranks the quality and reliability of the information used in its determination. Fair values determined using “Level 1 inputs” utilize unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Fair values determined using “Level 2 inputs” utilize data points that are observable, such as quoted prices, interest rates and yield curves for similar assets and liabilities.
 
Cash equivalents of $30.2$62.3 million and $286.2 million as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016, respectively, were reported at fair value utilizing quoted market prices in identical markets, or “Level 1 inputs.” Our cash equivalents consist of short-term, highly liquid investments with remaining maturities of three months or less when purchased.
 
Marketable securities of $72.9$17.1 million and $3.0 million as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016, respectively, were reported at fair value calculated in accordance with the market approach, utilizing market consensus pricing models with quoted prices that were directly or indirectly observable, or “Level 2 inputs.”
 

Financial instruments not measured or recorded at fair value in the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements consist of accounts receivable, installments receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The estimated fair value of these financial instruments approximates their carrying value. The estimated fair value of the borrowings under the Credit Agreement (described below in Note 11, Credit Agreement) approximates its carrying value due to the floating interest rate.


5.  Accounts Receivable
 
Our accounts receivable, net of the related allowance for doubtful accounts, were as follows as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016:
 
Gross Allowance NetGross Allowance Net
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
December 31, 2016: 
  
  
March 31, 2017: 
  
  
Accounts receivable$19,256
 $1,329
 $17,927
$36,428
 $(1,236) $35,192
$19,256
 $1,329
 $17,927
$36,428
 $(1,236) $35,192
          
June 30, 2016: 
  
  
 
  
  
Accounts receivable$22,080
 $1,604
 $20,476
$22,080
 $(1,604) $20,476
$22,080
 $1,604
 $20,476
$22,080
 $(1,604) $20,476
 
As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we had one customer receivable balance that individually represented approximately 15%11% of our total receivables.

6.  Property and Equipment

Property, equipment and leasehold improvements in the accompanying unaudited consolidated balance sheets consisted of the following:
 
December 31,
2016
 June 30,
2016
March 31,
2017
 June 30,
2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements - at cost: 
  
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, at cost: 
  
Computer equipment$9,668
 $10,387
$9,689
 $10,387
Purchased software23,725
 23,705
23,930
 23,705
Furniture & fixtures6,862
 6,712
6,874
 6,712
Leasehold improvements11,763
 12,523
12,033
 12,523
Accumulated depreciation(37,026) (37,502)(38,372) (37,502)
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements - net$14,992
 $15,825
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net$14,154
 $15,825

During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we wrote off fully depreciated property, equipment and leasehold improvements that were no longer in use with a total gross book valuesvalue of $2.2 million.

7. Acquisitions 
Mtelligence Corporation
On October 26, 2016, we completed the acquisition of all the outstanding shares of Mtelligence Corporation (“Mtell”), a provider of predictive and prescriptive maintenance software and related services used to optimize asset performance, for total cash consideration of $37.4 million. The purchase price consisted of $31.9 million of cash paid at closing and an additional $5.5 million to be held back until April 2018 as security for certain representations, warranties, and obligations of the sellers. The holdback was recorded at its fair value as of the acquisition date of $5.3 million.million, and is recorded in other non-current liabilities in our consolidated balance sheet.

A preliminary allocation of the purchase price is as follows. The valuation of the net assets acquired and the deferred tax liabilities are considered preliminary as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017.
AmountAmount
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Tangible assets acquired, net$779
$779
Identifiable intangible assets:  
Developed technology11,385
11,385
Customer relationships679
679
Non-compete agreements553
553
  
Goodwill28,160
25,888
Deferred tax liabilities, net(4,371)(2,099)
Total assets acquired$37,185
$37,185
We used the income approach to determine the values of the identifiable intangible assets. The weighted-average discount rate (or rate of return) used to determine the value of the Mtell intangible assets was 19% and the effective tax rate used was 34%.  The values of the developed technology, customer relationships and non-compete agreements are being amortized on a straight-line basis, except technology, which is being amortized on a proportional use basis, over their estimated useful lives of 12 years, 6 years and 3 years, respectively.
The goodwill, which is not deductible for tax purposes, reflects the value of the assembled workforce and the company-specific synergies we expect to realize by selling Mtell products and services to our existing customers.  The results of operations of Mtell have been included prospectively in our results of operations since the date of acquisition.
Technology and Trademarks
In August 2016, we acquired certain technology and trademarks for total cash consideration of $6.0 million. The purchase price consisted of $5.4 million of cash paid at closing and up to an additional $0.6 million to be paid in August 2017. The acquisition met the definition of a business combination as it contained inputs and processes that are capable of being operated as a business. The preliminary allocation of the purchase price as of September 30, 2016 allocated $4.0 million to developed technology and $2.0 million to goodwill. The fair value of the developed technology of $4.0 million was determined using the replacement cost approach. The developed technology is being amortized on a straight-line basis over its estimated useful life of 6 years. The acquisition is treated as an asset purchase for tax purposes and accordingly, the goodwill resulting from the acquisition is expected to be deductible.

In April 2017, we acquired certain technology for total cash consideration of $1.9 million. The purchase price consisted of $1.4 million of cash paid at closing and up to an additional $0.5 million to be paid in April 2018.
Fidelis Group, LLC
In June 2016, we completed the acquisition of all the outstanding shares of Fidelis Group, LLC ("Fidelis"), a provider of asset reliability software used to predict and optimize asset performance. The purchase price consisted of $8.0 million of cash paid at closing and up to an additional $2.0 million to be paid in December 2017.

A preliminaryAn allocation of the purchase price is as follows, including adjustments identified subsequent to the acquisition date. The valuation of the net assets acquired and the deferred tax liabilities are considered preliminary as of December 31, 2016.
AmountAmount
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Tangible assets acquired, net$65
$49
Identifiable intangible assets:  
Developed technology1,272
1,272
Customer relationships753
753
In-process research and development3,097
3,097
  
Goodwill6,706
6,722
Deferred tax liabilities, net(1,893)(1,893)
Total assets acquired$10,000
$10,000

8. Intangible Assets 
We include in our amortizable intangible assets those intangible assets acquired in our business and asset acquisitions. We amortize acquired intangible assets with finite lives over their estimated economic lives, generally using the straight-line method. Each period, we evaluate the estimated remaining useful lives of acquired intangible assets to determine whether events or changes in circumstances warrant a revision to the remaining period of amortization. Acquired intangibles are removed from the accounts when fully amortized and no longer in use.
Intangible assets consistconsisted of the following as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016:
Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying AmountGross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
December 31, 2016:     
March 31, 2017:     
Technology and patents$19,150
 $(2,660) $16,490
$19,253
 $(2,917) $16,336
In process research & development3,200
 
 3,200
3,097
 
 3,097
Customer relationships1,432
 (47) 1,385
1,432
 (118) 1,314
Non-compete agreements553
 
 553
553
 (77) 476
Total$24,335
 $(2,707) $21,628
$24,335
 $(3,112) $21,223
June 30, 2016:          
Technology and patents$3,696
 $(2,596) $1,100
$3,696
 $(2,596) $1,100
In process research & development3,200
 
 3,200
3,200
 
 3,200
Customer relationships700
 
 700
700
 
 700
Total$7,596
 $(2,596) $5,000
$7,596
 $(2,596) $5,000
Total amortization expense related to intangible assets is included in operating expenses and amounted to approximately $0.4 million and $0.5 million for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2017 and $0.1 million for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016, and December 31, 2015, respectively. Amortization expense is expected to be approximately $1.1$1.0 million in fiscal 2017, $1.7$2.1 million in fiscal 2018, $1.7$2.1 million in fiscal 2019, $1.8$2.1 million in fiscal 2020, $1.9$2.2 million in fiscal 2021, and $13.4$12.2 million thereafter.


9. Goodwill
 
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for our subscription and software reporting unit during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was as follows:
Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated impairment losses Effect of currency translation Net Carrying AmountGross Carrying Amount Accumulated Impairment Losses Effect of Currency Translation Net Carrying Amount
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
       
Goodwill, net, at June 30, 2016$89,007
 $(65,569) $
 $23,438
June 30, 2016:$89,007
 $(65,569) $
 $23,438
Goodwill from Mtell acquisition28,160
 
 
 28,160
28,160
 
 
 28,160
Goodwill from technology acquisition2,000
 
 
 2,000
2,000
 
 
 2,000
Subsequent Fidelis goodwill adjustment(78) 
 
 (78)(62) 
 
 (62)
Subsequent Mtell goodwill adjustment(2,272) 
 
 (2,272)
Foreign currency translation and other
 
 (487) (487)
 
 (355) (355)
Goodwill, net, at December 31, 2016$119,089
 $(65,569) $(487) $53,033
March 31, 2017:$116,833
 $(65,569) $(355) $50,909
 
We testDuring the three months ended March 31, 2017, we recorded a goodwill for impairment annually (or more often if impairment indicators arise), atadjustment of approximately $2.3 million to increase the reporting unit level. We first assess qualitative factors to determine whether the existence of events or circumstances indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If we determine based on this assessment that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, we perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. The first step requires us to determine the fair value of the reporting unit and compare it to the carrying amount, including goodwill,deferred tax assets acquired through our acquisition of such reporting unit. If the fair value exceeds the carrying amount, no impairment loss is recognized. However, if the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the goodwill of the unit may be impaired. The amount of impairment, if any, is measured based upon the implied fair value of goodwill at the valuation date.
Fair value of a reporting unit is determined using a combined weighted average of a market-based approach (utilizing fair value multiples of comparable publicly traded companies) and an income-based approach (utilizing discounted projected cash flows). In applying the income-based approach, we would be required to make assumptions about the amount and timing of future expected cash flows, growth rates and appropriate discount rates. The amount and timing of future cash flows would be based on our most recent long-term financial projections. The discount rate we would utilize would be determined using estimates of market participant risk-adjusted weighted-average costs of capital and reflect the risks associated with achieving future cash flows.
We have elected December 31st as the annual impairment assessment date and perform additional impairment tests ifMtell. No triggering events occur. We performed our annual impairment test for the subscription and software reporting unit as of December 31, 2016 and, based upon the results of our qualitative assessment, determined that it was not likely that its fair value was less than its carrying amount. As such, we did not perform the two-stepindicating goodwill impairment test and did not recognize impairment losses as a result of our analysis. If an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduceoccurred during the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value, goodwill will be evaluated for impairment between annual tests.nine months ended March 31, 2017.



10. Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the accompanying unaudited consolidated balance sheets consistconsisted of the following:
 
December 31,
2016
 June 30,
2016
March 31,
2017
 June 30,
2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Royalties and outside commissions$2,894
 $2,640
$2,760
 $2,640
Payroll and payroll-related12,351
 17,809
14,284
 17,809
Professional fees2,140
 1,696
Deferred acquisition payments2,675
 584
Other17,783
 15,656
16,483
 13,376
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities$33,028
 $36,105
$38,342
 $36,105

Other non-current liabilities in the accompanying unaudited consolidated balance sheets consistconsisted of the following:
 
December 31,
2016
 June 30,
2016
March 31,
2017
 June 30,
2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Deferred rent$6,627
 $6,361
$6,758
 $6,361
Uncertain tax positions20,704
 23,535
21,760
 23,535
Deferred acquisition payments5,316
 2,000
Other10,451
 2,695
4,677
 695
Total other non-current liabilities$37,782
 $32,591
$38,511
 $32,591


11.  Credit Agreement
 
On February 26, 2016, we entered into a $250.0 million Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, Silicon Valley Bank, as syndication agent, and the lenders and other parties named therein (the “Lenders”). The indebtedness evidenced by the Credit Agreement matures on February 26, 2021. Prior to the maturity of the Credit Agreement, any amounts borrowed may be repaid and, subject to the terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement, borrowed again in whole or in part without penalty. As of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and June 30, 2016, we had $140.0 million in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement. Debt issuance costs related to the Credit Agreement were recorded in prepaid expenses and other current assets in our consolidated balance sheet.sheet, and are amortized over the life of the agreement term.
 
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement bear interest at a rate equal to either, at our option, the sum of (a) the highest of (1) the rate of interest publicly announced by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as its prime rate in effect, (2) the Federal Funds Effective Rate plus 0.5%, and (3) the one-month Adjusted LIBO Rate plus 1.0%, plus (b) a margin initially of 0.5% for the first full fiscal quarter ending after the date of the Credit Agreement and thereafter based on our Leverage Ratio; or the Adjusted LIBO Rate plus a margin initially of 1.5% for the first full fiscal quarter ending after the date of the Credit Agreement and thereafter based on our Leverage Ratio.  We must also pay, on a quarterly basis, an unused commitment fee at a rate of between 0.2% and 0.3% per annum, based on our Leverage Ratio. The interest rate as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was 2.27%2.49%.
 
All borrowings under the Credit Agreement are secured by liens on substantially all of our assets. The Credit Agreement contains affirmative and negative covenants customary for facilities of this type, including restrictions on: incurrence of additional debt; liens; fundamental changes; asset sales; restricted payments; and transactions with affiliates. The Credit Agreement contains financial covenants regarding maintenance as of the end of each fiscal quarter, commencing with the quarter ending June 30, 2016, of a maximum Leverage Ratio of 3.0 to 1.0 and a minimum Interest Coverage Ratio of 3.0 to 1.0. As of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 we were in compliance with these covenants.
 
12.  Stock-Based Compensation
 
The weighted average estimated fair value of option awards granted was $12.45$13.70 and $12.96 during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and $12.39$10.47 and $13.52$13.19 during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively.
 
We utilized the Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following weighted average assumptions:
 
Six Months Ended
December 31,
Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 20152017 2016
Risk-free interest rate1.1% 1.4%1.1% 1.4%
Expected dividend yield0.0% 0.0%0.0% 0.0%
Expected life (in years)4.6
 4.6
4.6
 4.7
Expected volatility factor31.4% 34.1%31.4% 34.1%
 

The stock-based compensation expense under all equity plans and its classification in the unaudited consolidated statements of operations for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 20152016 are as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 2015 2016 20152017 2016 2017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Recorded as expenses: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Cost of services and other$374
 $350
 $743
 $707
$363
 $343
 $1,106
 $1,049
Selling and marketing1,010
 837
 1,965
 1,750
972
 1,797
 2,937
 3,547
Research and development1,495
 848
 2,558
 1,672
1,618
 871
 4,177
 2,543
General and administrative1,792
 1,477
 4,364
 3,806
1,724
 1,367
 6,087
 5,174
Total stock-based compensation$4,671
 $3,512
 $9,630
 $7,935
$4,677
 $4,378
 $14,307
 $12,313


A summary of stock option and RSU activity under all equity plans for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 is as follows:
 
Stock Options Restricted Stock UnitsStock Options Restricted Stock Units
Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in 000’s)
 Shares 
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Shares 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
(Years)
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in 000’s)
 Shares 
Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Outstanding at June 30, 20161,314,142
 $32.47
 7.23 $12,340
 493,332
 $41.06
1,314,142
 $32.47
 7.23 $12,340
 493,332
 $41.06
Granted456,872
 45.48
    
 509,156
 45.93
459,785
 45.54
    
 511,777
 45.98
Settled (RSUs)
  
    
 (163,970) 41.72

  
    
 (239,909) 41.67
Exercised(191,085) 25.84
    
 
  
(295,059) 26.99
    
 
  
Cancelled / Forfeited(42,702) 39.25
    
 (35,987) 42.28
(46,024) 39.58
    
 (39,191) 42.40
Outstanding at December 31, 20161,537,227
 $36.97
 7.72 $27,219
 802,531
 $43.96
Vested and exercisable at December 31, 2016806,266
 $30.97
 6.54 $19,113
 
  
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 20161,460,949
 $36.60
 7.65 $26,416
 719,043
 $43.87
Outstanding at March 31, 20171,432,844
 $37.57
 7.59 $30,597
 726,009
 $44.25
Vested and exercisable at March 31, 2017777,059
 $32.29
 6.53 $20,695
 
  
Vested and expected to vest as of March 31, 20171,369,672
 $37.25
 7.53 $29,686
 655,472
 $44.16
 
The weighted average grant-date fair value of RSUs granted was $47.73$54.95 and $45.93$45.98 during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and $38.04$31.97 and $43.94$41.91 during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively.  The total fair value of shares vested from RSU grants was $4.2$4.5 million and $8.3$12.8 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and $2.9$3.6 million and $6.3$9.8 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively.
 
At DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, the total future unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options was $8.3$7.5 million and is expected to be recorded over a weighted average period of 2.92.7 years.  At DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, the total future unrecognized compensation cost related to RSUs was $31.4$28.2 million and is expected to be recorded over a weighted average period of 2.92.7 years.
 
The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $1.4$2.9 million and $4.1$6.9 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and $1.4$0.3 million and $2.3$2.6 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively. We received cash proceeds from option exercises of $4.8$7.9 million and $2.4$2.9 million during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, respectively. We withheld withholding taxes on vested RSUs of $2.8$4.4 million and $2.2$3.4 million during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, respectively.
 
At DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, common stock reserved for future issuance or settlement under equity compensation plans was 5.010.8 million shares.
 

13.  Stockholders’ Deficit
 
Stock Repurchases

On January 28,22, 2015, our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program for up to $450.0 million worth of our common stock. On April 26, 2016, the Board of Directors approved a $400.0 million increase in the share repurchase plan. The timing and amount of any shares repurchased are based on market conditions and other factors. All shares of our common stock repurchased have been recorded as treasury stock under the cost method.
 
On August 29, 2016, as part of our common stock repurchase program, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase program (the "ASR Program") with a third-party financial institution. Pursuant to the terms of the ASR Program, we made an upfront payment of $100.0 million in exchange for an initial delivery of approximately 1.76 million shares of our common stock, representing 80% of the total shares ultimately expected to be delivered over the program's term. The initial shares received, which had an aggregate cost of $80.0 million based on the August 29, 2016 closing share price, were recorded as an increase to treasury stock. As of September 30, 2016, $20.0 million, representing the difference between the upfront $100.0 million payment and the $80.0 million cost of the initial share delivery, was recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital in our consolidated balance sheet.


Upon the final settlement of the ASR Program during the three months ended December 31, 2016, we received an additional delivery of 0.35 million shares of our common stock.  The total number of shares received under the ASR Program during the six months ended December 31, 2016 was 2.1 million shares, which was determined based on the volume-weighted average price per share of our common stock over the term of the ASR Program, less an agreed-upon discount.

During the three and nine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017, we repurchased 987,237in the open market 1,736,330 and 348,8543,862,425 shares of our common stock for $50.0$100.0 million and $20.0$200.0 million, inrespectively. Additionally, during the open market and as part of the ASR Program, respectively.

During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017, we repurchased 2,126,095 and 2,106,709 shares of our common stock for $100.0 million and $100.0 million in the open market and as part of the ASR Program, respectivelyProgram.

As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, the total remaining value under the share repurchase program approved on January 28,22, 2015 and amended on April 26, 2016 was approximately $321.3$221.3 million.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
 
As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, accumulated other comprehensive income was comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments of less than $0.1 million and net unrealized losses on available for sale securities of less than $0.1 million. As of December 31, 2015, accumulated other comprehensive income was comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments of $4.3 million and net unrealized losses on available for sale securities of less than $0.1 million.
 
As of June 30, 2016, accumulated other comprehensive income was comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments of $2.7 million and net unrealized losses on available for sale securities of less than $0.1 million. As of June 30, 2015, accumulated other comprehensive income was comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments of $6.5 million and net unrealized losses on available for sale securities of less than $0.1 million.
 
14.  Net Income Per Share
 
Basic income per share is determined by dividing net income by the weighted average common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income per share is determined by dividing net income by diluted weighted average shares outstanding during the period. Diluted weighted average shares reflect the dilutive effect, if any, of potential common shares. To the extent their effect is dilutive, employee equity awards and other commitments to be settled in common stock are included in the calculation of diluted net income per share based on the treasury stock method.
 
The calculations of basic and diluted net income per share and basic and dilutive weighted average shares outstanding for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 20152016 are as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 2015 2016 20152017 2016 2017 2016
(Dollars and Shares in Thousands, Except per Share Data)(Dollars and Shares in Thousands, Except per Share Data)
Net income$37,010
 $36,683
 $72,011
 $73,454
$35,834
 $33,171
 $107,845
 $106,625
              
Weighted average shares outstanding76,905
 83,315
 77,977
 83,596
75,676
 83,081
 77,221
 83,425
              
Dilutive impact from: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Share-based payment awards413
 388
 379
 439
506
 292
 431
 417
Dilutive weighted average shares outstanding77,318
 83,703
 78,356
 84,035
76,182
 83,373
 77,652
 83,842
              
Income per share 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Basic$0.48
 $0.44
 $0.92
 $0.88
$0.47
 $0.40
 $1.40
 $1.28
Dilutive$0.48
 $0.44
 $0.92
 $0.87
$0.47
 $0.40
 $1.39
 $1.27
 
For the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, certain employee equity awards were anti-dilutive based on the treasury stock method. Additionally, during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, options to purchase 2,260 and 6,8755,173 shares respectively, of our common stock were not included in the computation of dilutive weighted average shares outstanding, because their exercise prices ranged from $47.40$52.14 per share to $54.22$54.95 per share and were greater than the average market price of our common stock during the periodsperiod then ended. These options were outstanding as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and expire at various dates through December 14, 2026.February 6, 2027.

The following employee equity awards were excluded from the calculation of dilutive weighted average shares outstanding because their effect would be anti-dilutive as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015:2016:
 
 Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 2016 2015 2016 2015
 (Shares in Thousands)
Employee equity awards721
 1,108
 873
 1,072
 Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 2017 2016 2017 2016
 (Shares in Thousands)
Employee equity awards43
 1,250
 722
 1,092
 
15.   Income Taxes
 
The effective tax rate for the periods presented was primarily the result of income earned in the U.S., taxed at U.S. federal and state statutory income tax rates, income earned in foreign tax jurisdictions taxed at the applicable rates, as well as the impact of permanent differences between book and tax income.
 
Our effective tax rate for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was 33.9%30.4% and 35.0%33.5%, respectively, as compared to 34.7%30.5% and 34.8%33.5% for the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year. Our effective tax rate changed slightly for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 compared to the same periods in 20152016 due to discrete items.  During the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, our income tax expense was driven primarily by pre-tax profitability

in our domestic and foreign operations and the impact of permanent items. The permanent items are predominantly a U.S. domestic production activity deduction beingand tax credits for research expenditures, slightly offset by non-deductible stock-based compensation expense.
 
We use the “with and without” ordering approach to calculate our tax provision when necessary.  This methodology requires us to utilize all other tax attributes before recognizing excess tax benefits. Excess tax benefits are generated when the deductible value of stock-based compensation for income tax purposes exceeds the value recognized for financial statement purposes. Excess tax benefits are not included as a component of deferred tax assets. When realized, excess tax benefits reduce income taxes payable and increase additional paid in capital. In our unaudited consolidated statements of cash flows, the excess tax benefits of $1.0$2.3 million and $1.8$1.9 million were reported as sources of cash flows from financing activities with offsetting reductions to cash flows from operating activities during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, respectively.
 
Deferred income taxes are recognized based on temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using the statutory tax rates and laws expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are provided against net deferred tax assets if, based upon the available evidence, it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income and the timing of the temporary differences becoming deductible.  Management considers, among other available information, scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, limitations of availability of net operating loss carryforwards, and other matters in making this assessment.
 
We do not provide deferred taxes on unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries since we intend to indefinitely reinvest those earnings either currently or sometime in the foreseeable future. Unrecognized provisions for taxes on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries, which are considered indefinitely reinvested, are not material to our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
 
16. Commitments and Contingencies
 
Operating Leases
 
We lease certain facilities under non-cancellable operating leases with terms in excess of one year. Rental expense on leased facilities under operating leases was approximately $2.1 million and $4.2$6.3 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and $2.1$2.0 million and $4.1$6.1 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, respectively.
 
Standby letters of credit for $2.9$2.8 million as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 secure our performance on professional services contracts, certain facility leases and potential liabilities. This is a decrease from $3.5 million as of June 30, 2016. The letters of credit expire at various dates through fiscal 2018.
 

Legal Matters
 
In the ordinary course of business, we are, from time to time, involved in lawsuits, claims, investigations, proceedings and threats of litigation. These matters include an April 2004 claim by a customer that certain of our software products and implementation services failed to meet the customer's expectations. In March 2014, a judgment was issued by the trial court against us in the amount of approximately 1.9 million Euro (“€”) plus interest and a portion of legal fees.  We subsequently filed an appeal of that judgment.  As of December 31,In March 2016, the appellate court determined that we are liable for damages in the amount of approximately €1.7 million plus interest, with the possibility of additional damages to be determined in further proceedings by the appellate court. As of March 31, 2017, there has been no change to the appellate court’s determination.
 
While the outcome of the proceedings and claims referenced above cannot be predicted with certainty, there were no such matters, as of DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 that, in the opinion of management, are reasonably possible to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Liabilities, if applicable, related to the aforementioned matters discussed in this Note have been included in our accrued liabilities at DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, and are not material to our financial position for the period then ended. As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we do not believe that there is a reasonable possibility of a material loss exceeding the amounts already accrued for the proceedings or matters discussed above. However, the results of litigation (including the above-referenced appeal) and claims cannot be predicted with certainty; unfavorable resolutions are possible and could materially affect our results of operations, cash flows or financial position. In addition, regardless of the outcome, litigation could have an adverse impact on us because of attorneys' fees and costs, diversion of management resources and other factors.

17.  Segment Information
 
Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise that engage in business activities for which discrete financial information is available and regularly reviewed by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and to assess performance. Our chief operating decision maker is our President and Chief Executive Officer.
 
The subscription and software segment is engaged in the licensing of process optimization and asset performance management software solutions and associated support services. The services segment includes professional services and training. We do not track assets or capital expenditures by operating segments. Consequently, it is not practical to present assets, capital expenditures, depreciation or amortization by operating segments.
 

The following table presents a summary of our reportable segments’ profits:
 
Subscription
and software
 Services Total
Subscription
and Software
 Services Total
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Three Months Ended December 31, 2016 
  
  
Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 
  
  
Segment revenue$112,916
 $7,017
 $119,933
$111,717
 $7,560
 $119,277
Segment expenses (1)(45,602) (6,403) (52,005)(48,138) (6,746) (54,884)
Segment profit$67,314
 $614
 $67,928
$63,579
 $814
 $64,393
Three Months Ended December 31, 2015 
  
  
Three Months Ended March 31, 2016 
  
  
Segment revenue$110,126
 $9,025
 $119,151
$111,722
 $7,495
 $119,217
Segment expenses (1)(42,126) (6,921) (49,047)(46,176) (6,754) (52,930)
Segment profit$68,000
 $2,104
 $70,104
$65,546
 $741
 $66,287
          
Six Months Ended December 31, 2016 
  
  
Nine Months Ended March 31, 2017 
  
  
Segment revenue$226,360
 $13,623
 $239,983
$338,077
 $21,184
 $359,261
Segment expenses (1)(91,328) (12,839) (104,167)(139,466) (19,586) (159,052)
Segment profit$135,032
 $784
 $135,816
$198,611
 $1,598
 $200,209
          
Six Months Ended December 31, 2015 
  
  
Nine Months Ended March 31, 2016 
  
  
Segment revenue$221,985
 $17,462
 $239,447
$333,707
 $24,957
 $358,664
Segment expenses (1)(86,401) (14,651) (101,052)(132,577) (21,405) (153,982)
Segment profit$135,584
 $2,811
 $138,395
$201,130
 $3,552
 $204,682

(1)        Our reportable segments’ operating expenses include expenses directly attributable to the segments. Segment expenses include selling and marketing, research and development, stock-based compensation and certain corporate expenses incurred in support of the segments. Segment expenses do not include allocations of general and administrative; interest income, net; and other income, net.

Reconciliation to Income before Income Taxes
 
The following table presents a reconciliation of total segment profit to income before income taxes for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015:2016:
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 2015 2016 20152017 2016 2017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
              
Total segment profit for reportable segments$67,928
 $70,104
 $135,816
 $138,395
$64,393
 $66,287
 $200,209
 $204,682
General and administrative(11,863) (13,805) (25,020) (26,667)(12,120) (15,606) (37,140) (42,273)
Other income (expense), net697
 (157) 1,344
 739
Other (expense) income, net(56) (2,686) 1,287
 (1,947)
Interest (expense) income, net(676) 58
 (1,274) 139
(783) (240) (2,056) (101)
Income before income taxes$56,086
 $56,200
 $110,866
 $112,606
$51,434
 $47,755
 $162,300
 $160,361

Item 2.   Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
 
You should read the following discussion in conjunction with our unaudited consolidated financial statements and related and notes thereto contained in this report.  In addition to historical information, this discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.  You should read “Item 1A. Risk Factors,”Factors” of Part II for a discussion of important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from our expectations.
 
Our fiscal year ends on June 30th, and references in this Quarterly Report to a specific fiscal year are to the twelve months ended June 30th of such year (for example, “fiscal 2017” refers to the year ending on June 30, 2017).
 
Recent Events

In November 2016, we announced the introduction of a new product suite, aspenONE Asset Performance Management (APM). The new suite expands the aspenONE product portfolio from the engineering and manufacturing and supply chain suites into maintenance, reliability, and predictive analytics to address business challenges that include process disruptions, low asset availability and unplanned downtime. The aspenONE APM suite enables companies to optimize their assets throughout the entire plant lifecycle and includes the Aspen Fidelis Reliability product and the Aspen Asset Analytics products.
On October 26, 2016, we completed the acquisition of all the outstanding shares of Mtelligence Corporation (“Mtell”), a California-based provider of predictive and prescriptive maintenance software and related services used to optimize asset performance, for total cash consideration of $37.4 million. The purchase price consisted of $31.9 million of cash paid at closing and up to an additional $5.5 million to be held back until April 2018 as security for certain representations, warranties, and obligations of the Sellers.
Business Overview 
We areAspenTech is a leading global providersupplier of software solutions that optimize asset design, operation and maintenance lifecycles in complex, industrial environments. AspenTech combines decades of process optimizationmodeling expertise with big data machine-learning. Our purpose-built software solutions designed to manageplatform automates knowledge work, and optimize plant and process design, operational performance, and supply chain planning. Our aspenONE software and related services have been developed specifically for the process industries, including the energy, chemicals, and engineering and construction industries, as well as other industries in which asset optimization is a key component of operational performance. Customerscustomers use our solutions to improve their competitiveness and profitability by increasing throughput and productivity, reducing operating costs,unplanned downtime, enhancing capital efficiency, and decreasing working capital requirements.requirements over the entire asset lifecycle.
Our software incorporates our proprietary mathematical and empirical models of manufacturing and planning processes and reflects the deep domain expertise we have amassed from focusing on solutions for the process and othercapital-intensive industries for over 35 years. We have developed our applications to design and optimize processes across three principal business areas: engineering, manufacturing and supply chain, and asset performance management. We are a recognized market and technology leader in providing process optimization and asset performance management software solutions for each of these business areas.
We have established sustainable competitive advantages within our industry based on the following strengths:
Innovative products that can enhance our customers' profitability;profitability and productivity;
Long-term customer relationships;
Large installed base of users of our software; and
Long-term license contracts.
We have approximately 2,100 customers globally. Our customers consist of companies engaged in process and capital-intensive industries such as energy, chemicals, engineering and construction, as well as transportation, power, metals and mining, pulp and paper, pharmaceuticals, consumer packaged goods, and biofuels.
Business Segments
We have two operating and reportable segments: i) subscription and software and ii) services. The subscription and software segment is engaged in the licensing of process optimization and asset performance management software solutions and associated support services. The services segment includes professional services and training.

Key Components of Operations
Revenue
We generate revenue primarily from the following sources: 
Subscription and Software Revenue. We sell our software products to end users primarily under fixed-term licenses. We license our software products primarily through a subscription offering which we refer to as our aspenONE licensing model.model, which includes software maintenance and support, known as our Premier Plus SMS offering, for the entire term. Our aspenONE products are organized into three suites: 1) engineering; 2) manufacturing and supply chain, or MSC; and 3) asset performance management, or APM. The aspenONE licensing model provides customers with access to all of the products within the aspenONE suite(s) they license. Customers can change or alternate the use of multiple products in a licensed suite through the use of exchangeable units of measurement, called tokens, licensed in quantities determined by the customer. This licensing system enables customers to use products as needed and to experiment with different products to best solve whatever critical business challenges they face. Customers can increase their usage of our software by purchasing additional tokens as business needs evolve. 

We provide customers technical support, access to software fixes and updates and the right to any new unspecified future software products and updates that may be introduced into the licensed aspenONE software suite. Our technical support services are provided from our customer support centers throughout the world, as well as via email and through our support website.
We also license our software through point product arrangements with our Premier Plus SMS offering included for the contract term, as well as perpetual license arrangements.
Services and Other Revenue. We provide training and professional services to our customers. Our professional services are focused on implementing our technology in order to improve customers' plant performance and gain better operational data. Customers who use our professional services typically engage us to provide those services over periods of up to 24 months. We charge customers for professional services on a time-and-materials or fixed-price basis. We provide training services to our customers, including on-site, Internet-based and customized training.
Our services and other revenue consists of revenue related to professional services and training. The amount and timing of this revenue depend on a number of factors, including:
whether the professional services arrangement was sold as a single arrangement with, or in contemplation of, a new aspenONE licensing arrangement;
the number, value and rate per hour of service transactions booked during the current and preceding periods;
the number and availability of service resources actively engaged on billable projects;
the timing of milestone acceptance for engagements contractually requiring customer sign-off;
the timing of collection of cash payments when collectability is uncertain; and
the size of the installed base of license contracts.
 Cost of Revenue
Cost of Subscription and Software. Our cost of subscription and software revenue consists of (i) royalties, (ii) amortization of capitalized software and intangibles, (iii) distribution fees, and (iv) costs of providing Premier Plus SMS bundled with our aspenONE licensing and point product arrangements.
Cost of Services and Other. Our cost of services and other revenue consists primarily of personnel-related and external consultant costs associated with providing customers professional services and training.
Operating Expenses
Selling and Marketing Expenses. Selling expenses consist primarily of the personnel and travel expenses related to the effort expended to license our products and services to current and potential customers, as well as for overall management of customer relationships. Marketing expenses include expenses needed to promote our company and our products and to conduct market research to help us better understand our customers and their business needs.
Research and Development Expenses. Research and development expenses consist primarily of personnel expenses related to the creation of new software products, enhancements and engineering changes to existing products and costs of acquired technology prior to establishing technological feasibility.

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses include the costs of corporate and support functions, such as executive leadership and administration groups, finance, legal, human resources and corporate communications, and other costs, such as outside professional and consultant fees and provision for bad debts. 
Other Income and Expenses
Interest Income. Interest income is recorded for the accretion of interest on the investment in marketable securities and short-term money market instruments.
Interest Expense.  During the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016 ,2017, interest expense is primarily related to our Credit Agreement. During the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, interest expense was comprised of miscellaneous interest charges.

Other Income (Expense), Net. Other income (expense), net is comprised primarily of foreign currency exchange gains (losses) generated from the settlement and remeasurement of transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our operating units.
Provision for Income Taxes. Provision for income taxes is comprised of domestic and foreign taxes. Benefits from income taxes are comprised of any deferred benefit for tax deductions and credits that we expect to utilize in the future. We record interest and penalties related to income tax matters as a component of income tax expense. We expect the amount of income tax expense to vary each reporting period depending upon fluctuations in our taxable income by jurisdiction.
 Key Business Metrics

We utilize certain key non-GAAP and other business measures to track and assess the performance of our business and we make these measures available to investors.  We have refined the set of appropriate business metrics in the context of our evolving business and use the following non-GAAP business metrics in addition to GAAP measures to track our business performance:
 
Annual spend;

Free cash flow; and

Non-GAAP operating income.
  
None of these metrics should be considered as an alternative to any measure of financial performance calculated in accordance with GAAP.
 
Annual Spend
 
Annual spend is an estimate of the annualized value of our portfolio of term license arrangements, as of a specific date. Management believes that this financial measure is a useful metric to investors as it provides insight into the growth component of license bookings during a fiscal period. Annual spend is calculated by summing the most recent annual invoice value of each of our active term license contracts. Annual spend also includes the annualized value of standalone SMS agreements purchased in conjunction with term license agreements. Comparing annual spend for different dates can provide insight into the growth and retention rates of our business, and since annual spend represents the estimated annualized billings associated with our active term license agreements, it provides insight into the future value of subscription and software revenue.
 
Annual spend increases as a result of:
 
New term license agreements with new or existing customers;

Renewals or modifications of existing term license agreements that result in higher license fees due to price escalation or an increase in the number of tokens (units of software usage) or products licensed; and

Escalation of annual payments in our active term license contracts.
 
Annual spend is adversely affected by term license and standalone SMS agreements that are not renewed.
 

We estimate that annual spend grew by approximately 0.9%0.3% during the secondthird quarter of fiscal 2017, from $446.2 million at September 30, 2016 to $450.1 million at December 31, 2016 to $451.5 million at March 31, 2017, and by approximately 2.0%2.3% during the first halfnine months of fiscal 2017, from $441.4 million at June 30, 2016.
 
Free Cash Flow
 
We use a non-GAAP measure of free cash flow to analyze cash flows generated from our operations. Management believes that this financial measure is useful to investors because it permits investors to view our performance using the same tools that management uses to gauge progress in achieving our goals. We believe this measure is also useful to investors because it is an indication of cash flow that may be available to fund investments in future growth initiatives or to repay borrowings under the credit agreement, and it is a basis for comparing our performance with that of our competitors. The presentation of free cash flow is not meant to be considered in isolation or as an alternative to cash flows from operating activities as a measure of liquidity.

 
Free cash flow is calculated as net cash provided by operating activities adjusted for the net impact of (a) purchases of property, equipment and leasehold improvements, (b) capitalized computer software development costs, (c) excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation, (d) non-capitalized acquired technology, and (e) other nonrecurring items, such as acquisition and litigation related payments.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net cash flows provided by operating activities to free cash flow for the indicated periods:
 
Six Months Ended
December 31,
Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 20152017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Net cash provided by operating activities$53,417
 $39,172
$109,038
 $108,895
Purchases of property, equipment, and leasehold improvements(1,374) (1,781)(2,151) (2,530)
Capitalized computer software development costs(100) 
(126) 
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation1,032
 1,831
2,344
 1,878
Non-capitalized acquired technology846
 1,250
846
 1,250
Acquisition related fees413
 
Litigation related payments
 2,080
Acquisition related fee payments448
 6,068
Free cash flows (non-GAAP)$54,234
 $40,472
$110,399
 $117,641
 
Total free cash flow on a non-GAAP basis increaseddecreased by $13.8$7.2 million during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 as compared to the same period of the prior fiscal year primarily due to changes in working capital.
 
Excess tax benefits are related to stock-based compensation tax deductions in excess of book compensation expense and reduce our income taxes payable. We have included the impact of excess tax benefits in free cash flow to be consistent with the treatment of other tax activity.

In the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, we acquired technology that did not meet the accounting requirements for capitalization and therefore the cost of the acquired technology was expensed as research and development. We have excluded the payment for the acquired technology from free cash flow to be consistent with transactions where the acquired technology assets were capitalized.

Non-GAAP Operating Income
 
Non-GAAP income from operations excludes certain non-cash and non-recurring expenses, and is used as a supplement to operating income presented on a GAAP basis.  We believe that non-GAAP operating income is a useful financial measure because excluding non-recurring and certain non-cash items, provides additional insight into recurring profitability and cash flow from operations.
 

The following table presents our operating income, as adjusted for stock-based compensation expense, non-capitalized acquired technology, amortization of intangibles, and acquisition related expenses, for the indicated periods:
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 2016 Compared to 2015 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 2016 Compared to 2015Three Months Ended
March 31,
 2017 Compared to 2016 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 2017 Compared to 2016
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
GAAP income from operations$56,065
 $56,299
 $(234) (0.4)% $110,796
 $111,728
 $(932) (0.8)%$52,273
 $50,681
 $1,592
 3.1 % $163,069
 $162,409
 $660
 0.4 %
Plus: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Stock-based compensation4,671
 3,512
 1,159
 33.0 % 9,630
 7,935
 1,695
 21.4 %4,677
 4,378
 299
 6.8 % 14,307
 12,313
 1,994
 16.2 %
Non-capitalized acquired technology
 
 
  % 350
 250
 100
 40.0 %
 
 
  % 350
 250
 100
 40.0 %
Amortization of intangibles56
 20
 36
 180.0 % 111
 133
 (22) (16.5)%405
 14
 391
 2,792.9 % 516
 147
 369
 251.0 %
Acquisition-related fees99
 1,028
 (929) (90.4)% 461
 1,028
 (567) (55.2)%
Acquisition related fees31
 4,187
 (4,156) (99.3)% 493
 5,213
 (4,720) (90.5)%
Non-GAAP income from operations$60,891
 $60,859
 $32
 0.1 % $121,348
 $121,074
 $274
 0.2 %$57,386
 $59,260
 $(1,874) (3.2)% $178,735
 $180,332
 $(1,597) (0.9)%
 
In the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, we acquired technology that did not meet the accounting requirements for capitalization and therefore the cost of the acquired technology was expensed as research and development. We have excluded the expense of the acquired technology from non-GAAP operating income to be consistent with transactions where the acquired assets were capitalized.

Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments
 
Note 2, "Significant Accounting Policies" to the audited consolidated financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016 describes the significant accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements appearing in this report. The accounting policies that reflect our more significant estimates, judgments and assumptions in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements are described in "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016, and include the following:

revenue recognition;

accounting for income taxes; and

loss contingencies.

There were no significant changes to our critical accounting policies and estimates during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017.


Results of Operations
 
Comparison of the Three and SixNine Months Ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017
 
The following table sets forth the results of operations and the period-over-period percentage change in certain financial data for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016:2017:
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Increase /
(Decrease)
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
Increase /
(Decrease)
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Increase /
(Decrease)
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 
Increase /
(Decrease)
Change
2016 2015 % 2016 2015 %2017 2016 % 2017 2016 %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Revenue: 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Subscription and software$112,916
 $110,126
 2.5 % $226,360
 $221,985
 2.0 %$111,717
 $111,722
  % $338,077
 $333,707
 1.3 %
Services and other7,017
 9,025
 (22.2)% 13,623
 17,462
 (22.0)%7,560
 7,495
 0.9 % 21,184
 24,957
 (15.1)%
Total revenue119,933
 119,151
 0.7 % 239,983
 239,447
 0.2 %119,277
 119,217
 0.1 % 359,261
 358,664
 0.2 %
Cost of revenue: 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Subscription and software5,176
 4,967
 4.2 % 10,245
 10,209
 0.4 %5,521
 5,266
 4.8 % 15,766
 15,475
 1.9 %
Services and other6,403
 6,921
 (7.5)% 12,839
 14,651
 (12.4)%6,746
 6,754
 (0.1)% 19,586
 21,405
 (8.5)%
Total cost of revenue11,579
 11,888
 (2.6)% 23,084
 24,860
 (7.1)%12,267
 12,020
 2.1 % 35,352
 36,880
 (4.1)%
Gross profit108,354
 107,263
 1.0 % 216,899
 214,587
 1.1 %107,010
 107,197
 (0.2)% 323,909
 321,784
 0.7 %
Operating expenses: 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
Selling and marketing21,829
 21,178
 3.1 % 43,854
 43,614
 0.6 %22,269
 23,090
 (3.6)% 66,123
 66,704
 (0.9)%
Research and development18,597
 15,981
 16.4 % 37,229
 32,578
 14.3 %20,348
 17,820
 14.2 % 57,577
 50,398
 14.2 %
General and administrative11,863
 13,805
 (14.1)% 25,020
 26,667
 (6.2)%12,120
 15,606
 (22.3)% 37,140
 42,273
 (12.1)%
Total operating expenses, net52,289
 50,964
 2.6 % 106,103
 102,859
 3.2 %54,737
 56,516
 (3.1)% 160,840
 159,375
 0.9 %
Income from operations56,065
 56,299
 (0.4)% 110,796
 111,728
 (0.8)%52,273
 50,681
 3.1 % 163,069
 162,409
 0.4 %
Interest income216
 71
 204.2 % 488
 153
 219.0 %176
 90
 95.6 % 665
 243
 173.7 %
Interest expense(892) (13) *
 (1,762) (14) *
Other income, net697
 (157) 543.9 % 1,344
 739
 81.9 %
Interest (expense)(959) (330) 190.6 % (2,721) (344) 691.0 %
Other (expense) income, net(56) (2,686) 97.9 % 1,287
 (1,947) 166.1 %
Income before provision for income taxes56,086
 56,200
 (0.2)% 110,866
 112,606
 (1.5)%51,434
 47,755
 7.7 % 162,300
 160,361
 1.2 %
Provision for income taxes19,076
 19,517
 (2.3)% 38,855
 39,152
 (0.8)%15,600
 14,584
 7.0 % 54,455
 53,736
 1.3 %
Net income$37,010
 $36,683
 0.9 % $72,011
 $73,454
 (2.0)%$35,834
 $33,171
 8.0 % $107,845
 $106,625
 1.1 %
           
* Percentage is not meaningful.           



The following table sets forth the results of operations as a percentage of net revenue for certain financial data for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016:2017:
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 2015 2016 20152017 2016 2017 2016
(% of Revenue)(% of Revenue)
Revenue: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Subscription and software94.1 % 92.4 % 94.3 % 92.7 %93.7 % 93.7 % 94.1 % 93.0 %
Services and other5.9
 7.6
 5.7
 7.3
6.3
 6.3
 5.9
 7.0
Total revenue100.0
 100.0
 100.0
 100.0
100.0
 100.0
 100.0
 100.0
Cost of revenue: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Subscription and software4.3
 4.2
 4.3
 4.3
4.6
 4.4
 4.4
 4.3
Services and other5.3
 5.8
 5.3
 6.1
5.7
 5.7
 5.5
 6.0
Total cost of revenue9.7
 10.0
 9.6
 10.4
10.3
 10.1
 9.8
 10.3
Gross profit90.3
 90.0
 90.4
 89.6
89.7
 89.9
 90.2
 89.7
Operating expenses: 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
Selling and marketing18.2
 17.8
 18.3
 18.2
18.7
 19.4
 18.4
 18.6
Research and development15.5
 13.4
 15.5
 13.6
17.1
 14.9
 16.0
 14.1
General and administrative9.9
 11.6
 10.4
 11.1
10.2
 13.1
 10.3
 11.8
Total operating expenses, net43.6
 42.8
 44.2
 43.0
45.9
 47.4
 44.8
 44.4
Income from operations46.7
 47.3
 46.2
 46.7
43.8
 42.5
 45.4
 45.3
Interest income0.2
 0.1
 0.2
 0.1
0.1
 0.1
 0.2
 0.1
Interest expense(0.7) (0.0) (0.7) (0.0)
Other income (expense), net0.6
 (0.1) 0.6
 0.3
Interest (expense)(0.8) (0.3) (0.8) (0.1)
Other (expense) income, net
 (2.3) 0.4
 (0.5)
Income before provision for income taxes46.8
 47.2
 46.2
 47.0
43.1
 40.1
 45.2
 44.7
Provision for income taxes15.9
 16.4
 16.2
 16.4
13.1
 12.2
 15.2
 15.0
Net income30.9 % 30.8 % 30.0 % 30.7 %30.0 % 27.8 % 30.0 % 29.7 %
 
Revenue
 
Total revenue increased by $0.8$0.1 million and $0.5$0.6 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year. The increase of $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily attributablecomprised of an increase in services and other revenue of $0.1 million as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year. The increase of $0.6 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2017 was comprised of an increase in subscription and software revenue of $2.8 million and $4.4 million, respectively, partially offset by a decrease in services and other revenue of $2.0 million and $3.8 million, respectively.as compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year.

During the sixthree and nine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, we recognized revenue of $2.9$3.2 million and $6.1 million related to the completion of customer arrangements recognized under completed contract accounting. This amount was recognized as $2.0 million of subscription and software revenue and $0.9 million of services and other revenue. No such events occurred during the sixthree and nine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017. Excluding the revenue recognized for these arrangements, total revenue would have increased by $3.3 million and $6.7 million during the three and nine months ended March 31, 2017, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year.


Subscription and Software Revenue
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Subscription and software revenue$112,916
 $110,126
 $2,790
 2.5% $226,360
 $221,985
 $4,375
 2.0%$111,717
 $111,722
 $(5)  % $338,077
 $333,707
 $4,370
 1.3%
As a percent of revenue94.1% 92.4%  
  
 94.3% 92.7%    
93.7% 93.7%  
  
 94.1% 93.0%    

 
Subscription and software revenue was consistent during the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year, and increased by $4.4 million during the nine months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year. During the three and nine months ended March 31, 2016, we recognized subscription and software revenue of $3.1 million and $5.1 million related to the completion of customer arrangements recognized under completed contract accounting, as noted above. No such events occurred during the nine months ended March 31, 2017. Excluding the revenue recognized for these arrangements, subscription and software revenue would have increased by $3.1 million and $9.5 million during the three and nine months ended March 31, 2017, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year.

The increase in subscription and software revenue during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year was primarily the result of the growth of our base of license arrangements

being recognized on a ratable basis. In the six months ended December 31, 2015, we recognized revenue of $2.0 million related to the completion of customer arrangements recognized under completed contract accounting, as noted above. No such events occurred during the six months ended December 31, 2016.
 
We expect subscription and software revenue to continue to increase as a result of: (i) having a larger base of license arrangements recognized on a ratable basis; (ii) increased customer usage of our software; (iii) adding new customers; and (iv) escalating annual payments.

Services and Other Revenue
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Services and other revenue$7,017
 $9,025
 $(2,008) (22.2)% $13,623
 $17,462
 $(3,839) (22.0)%$7,560
 $7,495
 $65
 0.9% $21,184
 $24,957
 $(3,773) (15.1)%
As a percent of revenue5.9% 7.6%  
  
 5.7% 7.3%  
  
6.3% 6.3%  
  
 5.9% 7.0%  
  
 
Services and other revenue increased by $0.1 million during the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year, and decreased by $3.8 million during the nine months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year.
Services and other revenue for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2016 included recognition of $0.1 million and $1.0 million of revenue related to customer contracts recognized under completed contract accounting, as noted above. No such events occurred during the nine months ended March 31, 2017. Excluding the revenue recognized for these arrangements, services and other revenue would have increased by $0.2 million and would have decreased by $2.8 million during the three and nine months ended March 31, 2017, respectively, as compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year. The decrease in services and other revenue during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year was primarily attributable to the timing and lower levels of activity of professional service arrangements.
Professional services revenue for the six months ended December 31, 2015 included recognition of $0.9 million of revenue related to customer contracts recognized under completed contract accounting, as noted above. No such events occurred during the six months ended December 31, 2016.
 
Under the aspenONE licensing model, revenue from committed professional service arrangements that are sold as a single arrangement with, or in contemplation of, a new aspenONE licensing transaction is deferred and recognized on a ratable basis over the longer of (a) the period the services are performed or (b) the term of the related software arrangement. As our typical contract term approximates five years, professional services revenue on these types of arrangements will usually be recognized over a longer period than the period over which the services are performed.
 
Gross Profit
 
Gross profit increased from $107.3remained consistent at $107.0 million and $107.2 million during the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2015 to $108.4 million during the corresponding period of the current fiscal year. The period-over-period increase in gross profit was primarily attributable to the growth of our subscription2017 and software revenue of $2.8 million.2016, respectively.

Gross profit increased from $214.6$321.8 million million during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20152016 to $216.9$323.9 million during the corresponding period of the current fiscal year. The period-over-period increase in gross profit was primarily attributable to the growth of our subscription and software revenue of $4.4 million.

Gross profit margin increaseddecreased from 90.0% and 89.6%89.9% during the three and six months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20152016 to 90.3% and 90.4%89.7% during the corresponding periodsperiod of the current fiscal year. Gross profit margin increased from 89.7% during the nine months ended March 31, 2016 to 90.2% during the corresponding period of the current fiscal year. For further discussion of subscription and

software gross profit and services and other gross profit, please refer to the “Cost of Subscription and Software Revenue” and “Cost of Services and Other Revenue” sections below.
 

Expenses
 
Cost of Subscription and Software Revenue
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Cost of subscription and software revenue$5,176
 $4,967
 $209
 4.2% 10,245
 10,209
 $36
 0.4%$5,521
 $5,266
 $255
 4.8% $15,766
 $15,475
 $291
 1.9%
As a percent of revenue4.3% 4.2%  
  
 4.3% 4.3%  
  
4.6% 4.4%  
  
 4.4% 4.3%  
  
 
Cost of subscription and software revenue was consistent for the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 as compared to the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year.
 
Subscription and software gross profit margin was consistent at 95.4%95.1% and 95.5%95.3% during the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, respectively. Subscription and software gross profit margin was consistent at 95.5%95.3% and 95.4% during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, respectively.

Cost of Services and Other Revenue
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Cost of services and other revenue$6,403
 $6,921
 $(518) (7.5)% $12,839
 $14,651
 $(1,812) (12.4)%$6,746
 $6,754
 $(8) (0.1)% $19,586
 $21,405
 $(1,819) (8.5)%
As a percent of revenue5.3% 5.8%  
  
 5.3% 6.1%  
  
5.7% 5.7%  
  
 5.5% 6.0%  
  
  
Cost of services and other revenue was consistent for the three months ended March 31, 2017 as compared to the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year. The period-over-period decrease in cost of services and other revenue of $0.5 million and $1.8 million during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016, respectively,2017 was primarily attributable to the timing of professional service arrangements and cost of revenue for projects accounted for under the completed contract method.
 
Cost of services and other revenue during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20152016 included the recognition of $0.6 million of costs related to customer contracts recognized under completed contract accounting, as noted above. No such events occurred during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017.
 
The timing of revenue and expense recognition on professional service arrangements can impact the comparability of cost and gross profit margin of professional services revenue from year to year.
 
Gross profit margin on services and other revenue of 8.8%10.8% for the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016 decreased2017 increased from the 23.3%9.9% for the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year, primarily due to lowerhigher revenue of $2.0$0.1 million.

Gross profit margin on services and other revenue of 5.8%7.5% for the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 decreased from the 16.1%14.2% for the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year, primarily due to lower revenue of $3.8 million.
  

Selling and Marketing Expense
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 
Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Selling and marketing expense$21,829
 $21,178
 $651
 3.1% $43,854
 $43,614
 $240
 0.6%$22,269
 $23,090
 $(821) (3.6)% $66,123
 $66,704
 $(581) (0.9)%
As a percent of revenue18.2% 17.8%  
  
 18.3% 18.2%  
  
18.7% 19.4%  
  
 18.4% 18.6%  
  
 

SellingThe period-over-period decrease of $0.8 million in selling and marketing expense was consistent forduring the three and six months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016 as2017 was primarily attributable to lower sales conference related costs of $1.2 million and lower stock-based compensation of $0.8 million, partially offset by higher commissions of $0.8 million and higher professional services fees of $0.4 million.

The period-over-period decrease of $0.6 million in selling and marketing expense during the nine months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily attributable to lower sales conference related costs of $1.5 million due to the holding of one sales conference in the current fiscal year compared to the corresponding periods oftwo sales conferences in the prior fiscal year.

year, partially offset by higher commissions of $0.9 million.
 
Research and Development Expense
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Research and development expense$18,597
 $15,981
 $2,616
 16.4% $37,229
 $32,578
 $4,651
 14.3%$20,348
 $17,820
 $2,528
 14.2% $57,577
 $50,398
 $7,179
 14.2%
As a percent of revenue15.5% 13.4%  
  
 15.5% 13.6%  
  
17.1% 14.9%  
  
 16.0% 14.1%  
  
 
The period-over-period increase of $2.6$2.5 million in research and development expense during the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was primarily attributable to higher compensation costs of $1.0$0.9 million related to an increase in headcount, andhigher stock-based compensation of $0.7 million, higher overhead allocations of $0.7$0.5 million, and higher professional services fees of $0.3 million.

The period-over-period increase of $4.7$7.2 million in research and development expense during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was primarily attributable to higher compensation costs of $1.8$2.7 million related to an increase in headcount, higher overhead allocations of $1.4$1.9 million, higher stock-based compensation of $0.9$1.6 million, and higher consulting costsprofessional services fees of $0.4$0.7 million.
In the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and DecemberMarch 31, 2015,2016, we acquired technology for $0.4 million and $0.3 million, respectively. At the time we acquired the technology, the projects to develop commercially available products did not meet the accounting definition of having reached technological feasibility and therefore the cost of the acquired technology was expensed as a research and development expense. 
General and Administrative Expense
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
General and administrative expense$11,863
 $13,805
 $(1,942) (14.1)% $25,020
 $26,667
 $(1,647) (6.2)%$12,120
 $15,606
 $(3,486) (22.3)% $37,140
 $42,273
 $(5,133) (12.1)%
As a percent of revenue9.9% 11.6%  
  
 10.4% 11.1%  
  
10.2% 13.1%  
  
 10.3% 11.8%  
  
 
The period-over-period decrease of $1.9$3.5 million in general and administrative expense during the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was primarily attributable to lower acquisition costs of $0.9$4.1 million and lower overhead allocations of $0.7

million, partially offset by higher professional services fees of $0.9 million and higher stock-based compensation of $0.4 million.

The period-over-period decrease of $1.6$5.1 million in general and administrative expense during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 was primarily attributable to lower acquisition costs of $4.7 million and lower overhead allocations of $2.2 million and lower acquisition costs of $0.6$2.9 million, partially offset by higher professional services fees of $1.4 million, which were primarily related to our assessment and implementation of ASU No. 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers, as well as higher hardware, software, and software maintenancetelecommunications costs of $1.2$1.3 million.
 
Interest Income
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest income$216
 $71
 $145
 204.2% $488
 $153
 $335
 219.0%$176
 $90
 $86
 95.6% $665
 $243
 $422
 173.7%
As a percent of revenue0.2% 0.1%  
  
 0.2% 0.1%  
  
0.1% 0.1%  
  
 0.2% 0.1%  
  
 

The period-over-period increase of $0.1 million and $0.3$0.4 million in interest income during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, respectively, was attributable to a higher level of interest income from investments.

Interest Expense
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Interest expense$(892) $(13) $(879) * $(1,762) $(14) $(1,748) *$(959) $(330) $(629) 190.6% $(2,721) $(344) $(2,377) 691.0%
As a percent of revenue(0.7)% %  
   (0.7)% %  
  (0.8)% (0.3)%  
  
 (0.8)% (0.1)%  
  
            
* Percentage is not meaningful.

 
The period-over-period increase of $0.9$0.6 million and $1.7$2.4 million in interest expense during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, respectively, was attributable to interest expense related to our outstanding borrowings, which we entered into in February 2016, as described in the Liquidity"Liquidity and Capital ResourcesResources" section below.
 
Other (Expense) Income, (Expense), net
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Other income (expense), net$697
 $(157) $854
 543.9% $1,344
 $739
 $605
 81.9%
Other (expense) income, net$(56) $(2,686) $2,630
 97.9% $1,287
 $(1,947) $3,234
 166.1%
As a percent of revenue0.6% (0.1)%  
  
 0.6% 0.3%  
  
% (2.3)%  
  
 0.4% (0.5)%  
  
 
During the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and 2016, and 2015, other (expense) income, (expense), net was comprised of $0.7$(0.1) million of currency gains and $0.2$(2.7) million of currency losses, respectively.

During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and 2016, and 2015, other (expense) income, net was comprised of $1.3 million of currency gains and $0.7$(2.0) million of currency gains,losses, respectively.
  

Provision for Income Taxes
 
Three Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Six Months Ended
December 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
Three Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
 Nine Months Ended
March 31,
 Period-to-Period
Change
2016 2015 $ % 2016 2015 $ %2017 2016 $ % 2017 2016 $ %
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Provision for income taxes$19,076
 $19,517
 $(441) (2.3)% $38,855
 $39,152
 $(297) (0.8)%$15,600
 $14,584
 $1,016
 7.0% $54,455
 $53,736
 $719
 1.3%
Effective tax rate33.9% 34.7%  
  
 35.0% 34.8%  
 0.002
30.4% 30.5%  
  
 33.5% 33.5%  
 0
 
The effective tax rate for the periods presented is primarily the result of income earned in the U.S. taxed at U.S. federal and state statutory income tax rates, income earned in foreign tax jurisdictions taxed at the applicable rates, as well as the impact of permanent differences between book and tax income.
 
Our effective tax rate decreased to 33.9%remained consistent at 30.4% for the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 compared to 34.7% for the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year primarily due to discrete items.year.

Our effective tax rate increased to 35.0%remained consistent at 33.5% for the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 compared to 34.8% for the corresponding period of the prior fiscal year primarily due to discrete items.

year.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
Resources
 
In recent years, we have financed our operations with cash generated from operating activities. As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, our principal sources of liquiditycapital resources consisted of $67.0$84.6 million in cash and cash equivalents and $72.9$17.1 million of marketable securities.

We believe our existing cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities, together with our cash flows from operating activities, will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs for at least the next twelve months. We may need to raise additional funds in the eventif we decide to make one or more acquisitions of businesses, technologies or products. If additional funding for such purpose is required beyond existing resources and our Credit Agreement described below, we may not be able to effect a receivable, equity or debt financing on terms acceptable to us or at all.

Credit Agreement
 
On February 26, 2016, we entered into a $250.0 million Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with various lenders. The Credit Agreement matures on February 26, 2021. Prior to the maturity of the Credit Agreement, any amounts borrowed may be repaid and, subject to the terms and conditions of the Credit Agreement, borrowed again whole or in part without penalty. As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we had $140.0 million in outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement.
 
For a more detailed description of the Credit Agreement, see Note 11, Credit Agreement, to our Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
 
Cash Equivalents and Cash Flows
 
Our cash equivalents of $30.2$62.3 million consistconsisted primarily of money market funds as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017. Our investments in marketable securities of $72.9$17.1 million as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016 consist2017 consisted primarily of investment grade fixed income corporate debt securities with maturities ranging from less than 1 month to 52 months. The fair value of our portfolio is affected by interest rate movements, credit and liquidity risks. The objective of our investment policy is to manage our cash and investments to preserve principal and maintain liquidity, while earning a return on our investment portfolio by investing available funds. We diversify our investment portfolio by investing in multiple types of investment-grade securities and attempt to mitigate a risk of loss by using a third-party investment manager.
 

The following table summarizes our cash flow activities for the periods indicated:
 
Six Months Ended
December 31,
Nine Months Ended
March 31,
2016 20152017 2016
(Dollars in Thousands)(Dollars in Thousands)
Cash flow provided by (used in): 
  
 
  
Operating activities$53,417
 $39,172
$109,038
 $108,895
Investing activities(108,014) 30,268
(52,980) (204,632)
Financing activities(196,495) (54,702)(289,752) 36,621
Effect of exchange rates on cash balances(218) (364)(90) (223)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents$(251,310) $14,374
$(233,784) $(59,339)
 
Operating Activities
 
Our primary source of cash is from the annual installments associated with our software license arrangements and related software support services, and to a lesser extent from professional services and training. We believe that cash inflows from our term license business will grow as we benefit from the continued growth of our portfolio of term license contracts.

During fiscal 2015, we utilized our tax credits and net operating losses to offset U.S. corporate income taxes payable. We became a U.S. corporate tax payer in fiscal year 2016.
 

Cash from operating activities provided $53.4$109.0 million during the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017. This amount resulted from net income of $72.0$107.8 million, adjusted for non-cash items of $10.9$19.1 million and net uses of cash of $29.5$17.9 million related to changes in working capital.
 
Non-cash items during the nine months ended March 31, 2017 consisted primarily of stock-based compensation expense of $9.6$14.3 million, depreciation and amortization expense of $3.3$5.0 million, deferred income taxes of $1.2 million and other net items of $0.1$0.7 million, partially offset by deferred income taxes of $0.2 million and net foreign currency gains of $2.3$2.0 million.
 
Cash used by working capital of $25.0$17.9 million during the nine months ended March 31, 2017 was primarily attributable to cash outflows related to decreases in deferred revenue of $40.7$13.6 million (cash flows related to deferred revenue vary due to the timing of invoicing, in particular the anniversary dates of annual installments associated with multi-year software license arrangements), partially offset by cash inflows related to decreases and increases in accounts receivable of $2.5$14.9 million, partially offset by increases in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other current liabilities of $5.1$6.9 million and decreases in prepaid expenses, prepaid income taxes, and other assets of $3.7$3.6 million.
 
 
Investing Activities
 
During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we used $108.0$53.0 million of cash for investing activities. We used $683.7 million for purchases of marketable securities, $36.2 million for net acquisition related payments, $1.4$2.2 million for capital expenditures and $0.1 million for capitalized computer software development costs, partially offset by sources of cash of $613.4$669.2 million resulting from the maturities of marketable securities.
 
Financing Activities
 
During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we used $196.5$289.8 million of cash for financing activities. We used $199.6$295.6 million for repurchases of our common stock and $2.8$4.3 million for withholding taxes on vested and settled restricted stock units, partially offset by proceeds of $4.8$7.9 million from the exercise of employee stock options and $1.0$2.3 million in excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation. 
 
Contractual Obligations
 
Standby letters of credit for $2.9$2.8 million as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016 secure2017 secured our performance on professional services contracts, certain facility leases and potential liabilities. This iswas a decrease from $3.5 million as of June 30, 2016. The letters of credit expire at various dates through fiscal 2018.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
 
Refer to Note 2 (g), “Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements,” in the Notes to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements for information about recent accounting pronouncements.

Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
 
In the ordinary course of conducting business, we are exposed to certain risks associated with potential changes in market conditions. These market risks include changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates which could affect operating results, financial position and cash flows. We manage our exposure to these market risks through our regular operating and financing activities and, if considered appropriate, we may enter into derivative financial instruments such as forward currency exchange contracts.
 
Foreign Currency Risk
 
During the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and 2016, 9.7% and 2015, 10.0% and 11.1%10.4% of our total revenue was denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar, respectively. During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and 2016, 9.9% and 2015, 10.0% and 13.8%11.9% of our total revenue was denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar, respectively. In addition, certain of our operating costs incurred outside the United States are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. We conduct business on a worldwide basis and as a result, a portion of our revenue, earnings, net assets, and net investments in foreign affiliates is exposed to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. We measure our net exposure for cash balance positions and for cash inflows and outflows in order to evaluate the need to mitigate our foreign exchange risk. We may enter into foreign currency forward contracts to minimize the impact related to unfavorable exchange rate movements, although we have not done so during the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015.2016. Our largest exposures to foreign currency exchange rates exist primarily with the Euro, Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar, and Japanese Yen.
 
During the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, we recorded $0.7$(0.1) million and ($0.2)$(2.7) million of net foreign currency exchange losses related to the settlement and remeasurement of transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our operating units. Our analysis of operating results transacted in various foreign currencies indicated that a hypothetical 10% change in the foreign currency exchange rates could have increased or decreased the consolidated results of operations by approximately $4.6 million and $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

During the nine months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, we recorded $1.3 million and $(2.0) million of net foreign currency exchange gains (losses) related to the settlement and remeasurement of transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our operating units. Our analysis of operating results transacted in various foreign currencies indicated that a hypothetical 10% change in the foreign currency exchange rates could have increased or decreased the consolidated results of operations by approximately $1.0$2.4 million and $1.1$3.7 million for the threenine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015, respectively.

During the six months ended December 31, 2016, and 2015, we recorded $1.3 million and $0.7 million of net foreign currency exchange gains related to the settlement and remeasurement of transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of our operating units. Our analysis of operating results transacted in various foreign currencies indicated that a hypothetical 10% change in the foreign currency exchange rates could have increased or decreased the consolidated results of operations by approximately $2.2 million and $2.4 million for the six months ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
We place our investments in money market instruments and high quality, investment grade, fixed-income corporate debt securities that meet high credit quality standards, as specified in our investment guidelines.
 
We mitigate the risks by diversifying our investment portfolio, limiting the amount of investments in debt securities of any single issuer and using a third-party investment manager. Our debt securities are short- to intermediate- term investments with maturities ranging from less than 1 month to 2 months as of March 31, 2017 and from less than 2 months to 5 months as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016, and from less than 1 month to 8 months as of December 31, 2015, respectively. We do not use derivative financial instruments in our investment portfolio.
 
Our analysis of our investment portfolio and interest rates at DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 20152016 indicated that a 100 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates would result in a decrease or increase of approximately $0.1 million andless than $0.1 million in the fair value of our investment portfolio at DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, respectively, determined in accordance with income-based approach utilizing portfolio future cash flows discounted at the appropriate rates.
 
We maintain a revolving Credit Agreement that allows us to borrow up to $250.0 million. At DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, we had $140.0 million in outstanding borrowings under our Credit Agreement. A hypothetical 10% increase or decrease in interest rates paid on outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement would not have a material impact on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.


Item 4.   Controls and ProceduresProcedures.
 
a)    Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Our management, with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016.2017. The term “disclosure controls and procedures,” as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act, means controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its principal executive and principal financial officers, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives, and management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Based on the evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer concluded that, as of such date, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
 
b)    Changes in Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting
 
During the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, no changes were identified in our internal controls over financial reporting that materially affected, or were reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.


PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 1.        Legal Proceedings.
 
Refer to Note 16, “Commitments and Contingencies,” in the Notes to the Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding certain legal proceedings, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
 
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
 
The risks described in Item"Item 1A. Risk Factors,Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2016, could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. These risk factors do not identify all risks that we face—our operations could also be affected by factors that are not presently known to us or that we currently consider to be immaterial to our operations. The Risk Factors section of our 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K remains current in all material respects, with the exception of the revised risk factors below.
 
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates could result in declines in our reported revenue and operating results.
 
During the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and 2016, 9.7% and 2015, 10.0% and 11.1%10.4% of our total revenue was denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar, respectively. During the sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 2017 and 2016, 9.9% and 2015, 10.0% and 13.8%11.9% of our total revenue was denominated in a currency other than the U.S. dollar, respectively. In addition, certain of our operating expenses incurred outside the United States are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Our reported revenue and operating results are subject to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Foreign currency risk arises primarily from the net difference between non-U.S. dollar receipts from customers outside the United States and non-U.S. dollar operating expenses for subsidiaries in foreign countries. Currently, our largest exposures to foreign exchange rates exist primarily with the Euro, Pound Sterling, Canadian dollar and Japanese Yen against the U.S. dollar. During the three and sixnine months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 and 2015,2016, we did not enter into, and were not a party to any, derivative financial instruments, such as forward currency exchange contracts, intended to manage the volatility of these market risks. We cannot predict the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, and foreign currency fluctuations in the future may adversely affect our revenue and operating results. Any hedging policies we may implement in the future may not be successful, and the cost of those hedging techniques may have a significant negative impact on our operating results.
  
 Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
 
The following table provides information about purchases by us during the three months ended DecemberMarch 31, 20162017 of shares of our common stock: 
Period 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (2)
 
Average Price
Paid per Share
(3)
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Program
(1)
 
Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Program (4)
         
October 1 to 31, 2016 352,660
 $47.27
 352,660
  
November 1 to 30, 2016 215,350
 $49.81
 215,350
  
December 1 to 31, 2016 768,081
 $55.47
 768,081
  
Total 1,336,091
 $52.39
 1,336,091
 $321,292,680
Period 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased (2)
 
Average Price
Paid per Share
(3)
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Program
(1)
 
Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that
May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Program (4)
         
January 1 to 31, 2017 271,951
 $54.98
 271,951
  
February 1 to 28, 2017 477,138
 $57.03
 477,138
  
March 1 to 31, 2017 987,241
 $58.59
 987,241
  
Total 1,736,330
 $57.59
 1,736,330
 $221,292,689
     
(1)      �� On January 28,22, 2015, our Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program for up to $450 million worth of our common stock. On April 26, 2016, the Board of Directors approved a $400 million increase in the share repurchase plan.
 
(2)        As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, the total number of shares of common stock repurchased under all programs approved by the Board of Directors was 26,086,814 shares,27,823,144, including purchases under the ASR Program. For a more detailed description of the ASR Program, see Note 13, Stockholders' Deficit, to our Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.

(3)        The total average price paid per share is calculated as the total amount paid for the repurchase of our common stock during the period divided by the total number of shares repurchased. During the period December 1 to 31, 2016, we received approximately 0.35 million shares of our common stock under final settlement the ASR Program, representing the remaining shares received over the program's term.

 
(4)    As of DecemberMarch 31, 2016,2017, the total remaining value under the share repurchase program approved on January 28,22, 2015 and amended on April 26, 2016 was approximately $321.3$221.3 million.

Item 5.    Other Information.
On May 2, 2017, we announced that, effective May 2, 2017, William T. Griffin, Executive Vice President, Field Operations, has left the Company to pursue other opportunities.



Item 6.   Exhibits.
 
      Incorporated by Reference
       
Exhibit
Number
 Description 
Filed with
this Form
10-Q
 Form 
Filing Date with
SEC
 
Exhibit
Number
10.1^Aspen Technology, Inc. 2016 Omnibus Incentive Plan8-KDecember 12, 201610.1
10.2^Form of Terms and Conditions of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement Granted Under Aspen Technology Inc. 2016 Omnibus Incentive PlanX
10.3^
Form of Terms and Conditions of Stock Option Agreement Granted Under Aspen Technology Inc. 2016 Omnibus Incentive Plan

X
           
31.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X      
           
31.2 Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X      
           
32.1 Certification of President and Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X      
           
101.INS Instance Document X      
           
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document X      
           
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document X      
           
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document X      
           
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document X      
           
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document X      

SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 Aspen Technology, Inc.
  
Date: January 26,May 2, 2017By:/s/ ANTONIO J. PIETRI
  Antonio J. Pietri
  President and Chief Executive Officer
  (Principal Executive Officer)
 
Date: January 26,May 2, 2017By:/s/ KARL E. JOHNSEN
  Karl E. Johnsen
  Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
  (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

EXHIBIT INDEX
 
      Incorporated by Reference
       
Exhibit
Number
 Description 
Filed with
this Form
10-Q
 Form 
Filing Date with
SEC
 
Exhibit
Number
10.1^Aspen Technology, Inc. 2016 Omnibus Incentive Plan8-KDecember 12, 201610.1
10.2^Form of Terms and Conditions of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement Granted Under Aspen Technology Inc. 2016 Omnibus Incentive PlanX
10.3^
Form of Terms and Conditions of Stock Option Agreement Granted Under Aspen Technology Inc. 2016 Omnibus Incentive Plan

X
           
31.1 Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X      
           
31.2 Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14, as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X      
           
32.1 Certification of President and Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 X      
           
101.INS Instance Document X      
           
101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document X ��    
           
101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document X      
           
101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document X      
           
101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document X      
           
101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document X      





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