Leaf 10-Q 7 May 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	1-May-15
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	DEMAND MEDIA INC.
Entity Central Index Key	1365038
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-15
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		19,803,540
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$47,323	$47,820
Accounts receivable, net	11,426	14,504
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	7,558	7,447
Total current assets	66,307	69,771
Property and equipment, net	20,093	22,836
Intangible assets, net	35,806	40,535
Goodwill	10,358	10,358
Other assets	5,922	6,055
Total assets	138,486	149,555
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	2,054	4,762
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	21,398	24,225
Deferred revenue	2,776	3,569
Total current liabilities	26,228	32,556
Deferred tax liability	334	334
Other liabilities	1,712	1,823
Stockholders’ equity
Common stock, $0.0001 par value. Authorized 100,000 shares; 20,606 issued and 19,804 shares outstanding at March 31, 2015 and 20,543 issued and 19,741 shares outstanding at December 31, 2014	2	2
Additional paid-in capital	499,922	497,809
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-70	-76
Treasury stock at cost, 802 at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 respectively	-30,767	-30,767
Accumulated deficit	-358,875	-352,126
Total stockholders’ equity	110,212	114,842
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$138,486	$149,555

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value (USD per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	100,000	100,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued	20,606	20,543
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	19,804	19,741
Treasury Stock, Shares	802	802

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Revenue:
Service revenue	$23,225	$38,264
Product revenue	9,985	6,792
Total revenue	33,210	45,056
Operating expenses:
Service costs (exclusive of amortization of intangible assets shown separately below)	10,003	10,668
Product costs	6,834	4,955
Sales and marketing	4,605	6,131
Product development	6,358	7,223
General and administrative	10,362	11,849
Amortization of intangible assets	4,711	9,938
Total operating expenses	42,873	50,764
Loss from operations	-9,663	-5,708
Interest income (expense), net	109	-770
Other income (expense), net	2,827	-23
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes	-6,727	-6,501
Income tax expense	-22	-2,445
Net loss from continuing operations	-6,749	-8,946
Net loss from discontinued operations		-2,010
Net income (loss)	($6,749)	($10,956)
Earnings per share - basic and diluted
Net loss from continuing operations	($0.34)	($0.49)
Net loss from discontinued operations		($0.11)
Net income (loss)	($0.34)	($0.60)
Weighted average number of shares - basic and diluted	19,773	18,171

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	($6,749)	($10,956)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	6	-22
Realized gain on marketable securities available-for-sale, net of tax expense of $344		-562
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	6	-584
Comprehensive income (loss)	($6,743)	($11,540)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Tax expense of realized gain on marketable securities	$344

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sto

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Stock	Additional paid-in capital	Treasury Stock	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	Accumulated deficit	Total
In Thousands
Stockholders' equity, beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$2	$497,809	($30,767)	($76)	($352,126)	$114,842
Common stock shares outstanding, beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2014	19,741					19,741
Issuance of stock under employee stock awards and other, net		25				25
Issuance of stock under employee stock awards and other, net, shares	63
Stock-based compensation		2,088				2,088
Foreign currency translation adjustment				6		6
Net income (loss)					-6,749	-6,749
Stockholders' equity ending balance at Mar. 31, 2015	$2	$499,922	($30,767)	($70)	($358,875)	$110,212
Common stock shares outstanding, ending balance at Mar. 31, 2015	19,804					19,804

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	($6,749)	($10,956)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	7,550	17,405
Deferred income taxes		2,376
Stock-based compensation	2,235	5,267
Gain on disposal of businesses	-2,908
Gain on other assets, net		-4,860
Other		-1,522
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisition:
Accounts receivable, net	2,905	1,611
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-262	-1,372
Deferred registration costs		-6,424
Deposits with registries		348
Other long-term assets	-38	167
Accounts payable	-2,574	-732
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	-2,435	-3,510
Deferred revenue	-139	7,890
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities	-2,415	5,688
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	-1,772	-2,790
Purchases of intangible assets	-19	-3,264
Payments for gTLD applications, net		-400
Proceeds from gTLD withdrawals, net		5,099
Cash received from disposal of business, net of cash disposed	3,831
Other	155	1,171
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	2,195	-184
Cash flows from financing activities
Long-term debt repayments, net		-3,750
Proceeds from exercises of stock options and contributions to ESPP	126	180
Net taxes paid on RSUs and options exercised	-289	-847
Cash paid for acquisition holdback		-500
Other	-120	-117
Net cash used in financing activities	-283	-5,034
Effect of foreign currency on cash and cash equivalents	6	-18
Change in cash and cash equivalents	-497	452
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	47,820	153,511
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$47,323	$153,963

Company_Background_and_Overvie

Company Background and Overview	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Company Background and Overview	1. Company Background and Overview
	Demand Media, Inc. (“Demand Media” and, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, the “Company,” “our,” “we,” or “us”) is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Santa Monica, California. We are a diversified Internet company that builds platforms across our media and marketplace properties to enable communities of creators to reach passionate audiences in large and growing lifestyle categories. Our business is comprised of two service offerings, Content & Media and Marketplaces.
	On August 1, 2014, we completed the separation of Rightside Group, Ltd. (“Rightside”) from Demand Media, Inc., resulting in two independent, publicly traded companies (hereinafter referred to as the “Separation”). Following the Separation, Rightside operates our former domain name services business, while we continue to own and operate our Content & Media and Marketplaces businesses. The Separation was structured as a pro rata tax-free dividend involving the distribution of all outstanding shares of Rightside common stock to holders of Demand Media common stock as of the August 1, 2014 record date (the “Distribution”). Immediately following the Distribution, we completed a 1-for-5 reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock, including shares held in treasury, which is reflected retrospectively throughout the consolidated financial statements.
	Content & Media
	Our Content & Media service offering includes a leading online content creation platform that publishes content to our owned and operated online properties as well as to online properties operated by our customers. Through our innovative content creation platform, DemandStudios.com, a large community of qualified freelance professionals utilizes proprietary technology and automated workflow processes to identify valuable topics and then create high-quality content in text, video, photography and designed visual formats. This content is published to our leading owned and operated online properties across several key categories, including eHow.com, a how-to reference destination, and Livestrong.com, a health and healthy living destination. We also own and operate Cracked.com, a humor site offering original and engaging comedy-driven text articles, video series and blogs created by our in-house editorial staff, comedians and a community of website enthusiasts. Our content creation studio also produces content for our Content Solutions business, which develops and executes custom content marketing strategies for third-party brands, publishers and advertisers.
	Marketplaces
	Through our Marketplaces service offering, we operate two leading artist marketplaces where large communities of artists can market and sell original artwork or original designs printed on a wide variety of products. Society6.com (“Society6”), which we acquired in June 2013, provides artists with an online commerce platform to feature and sell their original designs on art prints, phone and tablet cases, t-shirts, throw pillows and other consumer products. Saatchi Online, which operates SaatchiArt.com (“Saatchi Art”), and which we acquired in August 2014, is an online art gallery featuring a wide selection of original paintings, drawings, sculptures and photography that provides a global community of artists a curated environment in which to exhibit and sell their work directly to consumers around the world.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Summ

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	2. Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	A summary of the significant accounting policies consistently applied in the preparation of the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements follows.
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying interim condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2015, the condensed consolidated statements of operations and condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 and the condensed consolidated statement of stockholders’ equity for the three month period ended March 31, 2015 are unaudited.
	In the opinion of management, the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of our statement of financial position as of March 31, 2015 and our results of operations for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 and our cash flows for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The results for the three month period ended March 31, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full year. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 has been derived from our audited financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	The interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States, for interim financial information and with the instructions to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. They do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Therefore, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 filed with the SEC.
	Our common stock share information and related per share amounts included in the condensed consolidated financial statements have been adjusted retroactively for all periods presented to reflect the 1-for-5 reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock, including shares held in treasury, that was effected on August 1, 2014.
	The financial results of Rightside are presented as discontinued operations in our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2014. For additional information relating to our previous domain name services business, please refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Demand Media and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Acquisitions are included in our consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. Our purchase accounting resulted in all assets and liabilities of acquired businesses being recorded at their estimated fair values on the acquisition dates. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the 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. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include revenue, allowance for doubtful accounts, investments in equity interests, the assigned value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities in business combinations, useful lives and impairment of property and equipment, intangible assets, goodwill and other assets, the fair value of equity-based compensation awards, and deferred income tax assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates compared to historical experience and trends, which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of our assets and liabilities.
	Investments in Equity
	We account for investments in companies that we do not control or account for under the equity method of accounting either at fair value or using the cost method of accounting, as applicable. Investments in equity securities are carried at fair value if the fair value of the security is readily determinable. Equity investments carried at fair value are classified as marketable securities available-for-sale. Realized gains and losses for marketable securities available-for-sale are included in other income (expense), net in our consolidated statements of operations. Unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, on marketable securities available-for-sale are included in our consolidated financial statements as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”), until realized.
	Investments in companies that we do not control or account for under the equity method, and for which we do not have readily determinable fair values, are accounted for under the cost method. Cost method investments are originally recorded at cost. In determining whether other-than-temporary impairment exists for equity securities, management considers: (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and (3) our intent and ability to retain our investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value.
	The cost of marketable securities sold is based upon the specific accounting method used. Any realized gains or losses on the sale of equity investments are reflected as a component of interest income or expense. During the first quarter of 2014, we sold all of these marketable securities, resulting in a reclassification from other comprehensive income of $0.9 million of unrealized gains on marketable securities, which is currently recorded in discontinued operations. The sale of our marketable securities resulted in total realized gains of $1.4 million related to the sale of our marketable securities, which are included in discontinued operations.
	We classify marketable securities as current or non-current based upon whether such assets are reasonably expected to be realized in cash or sold or consumed during the normal operating cycle of the business.
	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize revenue when four basic criteria are met: persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists; performance of services has occurred; the sales price is fixed or determinable; and collectability is reasonably assured. We consider persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement to be the receipt of a signed contract. Collectability is assessed based on a number of factors, including transaction history and the credit worthiness of a customer. If it is determined that collection is not reasonably assured, revenue is not recognized until collection becomes reasonably assured, which is generally upon receipt of cash. We record cash received in advance of revenue recognition as deferred revenue.
	For arrangements with multiple deliverables, we allocate revenue to each deliverable if the delivered item(s) has value to the customer on a standalone basis and, if the arrangement includes a general right of return relative to the delivered item, delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) is considered probable and substantially in our control. The fair value of the selling price for a deliverable is determined using a hierarchy of (1) company-specific objective and reliable evidence, then (2) third-party evidence, then (3) best estimate of selling price. We allocate any arrangement fee to each of the elements based on their relative selling prices.
	Our revenue is principally derived from the following services and products:
	Service Revenue
	Content & Media
	Advertising Revenue. We generate revenue from advertisements displayed alongside our content on our online properties and certain of our customers’ online properties. Articles, videos and other forms of content generate advertising revenue from a diverse mix of advertising methods including performance-based cost-per-click advertising, in which an advertiser pays only when a visitor clicks on an advertisement; display advertisements, where revenue is dependent upon the number of advertising impressions delivered; and sponsored content or advertising links. In determining whether an arrangement exists, we ensure that a binding arrangement is in place, such as a standard insertion order or a fully executed customer-specific agreement. Obligations pursuant to our advertising revenue arrangements typically include a minimum number of impressions or the satisfaction of other performance criteria. Revenue from performance-based arrangements is recognized as the related performance criteria are met. We assess whether performance criteria have been met and whether the fees are fixed or determinable based on a reconciliation of the performance criteria and an analysis of the payment terms associated with the transaction. The reconciliation of the performance criteria generally includes a comparison of third-party performance data to the contractual performance obligation and to internal or customer performance data in circumstances where that data is available.
	Where we enter into revenue-sharing arrangements with our customers, such as those relating to our advertiser network, and when we are considered the primary obligor, we report the underlying revenue on a gross basis in our consolidated statements of operations, and record these revenue-sharing payments to our customers in service costs.
	Social Media Services. Prior to the sale of our Pluck social media business in February 2015, we configured, hosted, and maintained our platform social media services under private-labeled versions of software for commercial customers. We earned revenue from our social media services through recurring management support fees, overage fees in excess of standard usage terms, outside consulting fees and initial set-up fees. Due to the fact that social media services customers had no contractual right to take possession of our private-labeled software, we accounted for our social media services revenue as service arrangements. Social media services revenue was recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery of the service has occurred and no significant obligations remain, the selling price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. In February 2015, we sold our Pluck social media business and we no longer provide any social media services. The consideration we received for Pluck was a $3.8 million cash payment after working capital adjustments, resulting in a gain of $2.9 million, which is recorded in other income (expense), net.
	Content Sales and Licensing Revenue. We also generate revenue from the sale or license of media content, including the creation and distribution of content for third party brands, publishers and advertisers through our Content Solutions service. Revenue from the sale or perpetual license of media content is recognized when the content has been delivered and the contractual performance obligations have been fulfilled. Revenue from the license of media content is recognized over the period of the license as content is delivered or when other related performance criteria are fulfilled. In circumstances where we distribute our content on third-party properties and the customer acts as the primary obligor, we recognize revenue on a net basis.
	Marketplaces
	Art Commissions Revenue. We generate service revenue from commissions we receive from facilitating the sale of original art by artists to customers through Saatchi Art. We recognize service revenue arising from the sale of original art net of amounts paid to the artist because we are not the primary obligor in the transaction, we do not have inventory risk, and we do not establish the prices for the art sold. We also recognize this service revenue net of any sales allowances. Revenue is recognized after the original art has been delivered and the return period has expired. Payments received in advance of delivery and completion of the return period are included in deferred revenue in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. We periodically provide incentive offers to customers to encourage purchases, including percentage discounts off current purchases, free shipping and other offers. Value-added taxes (“VAT’), sales and other taxes are not included in revenue because we are a pass-through conduit for collecting and remitting any such taxes.
	Product Revenue
	Marketplaces
	We recognize product revenue from sales of Society6 products upon delivery, net of estimated returns based on historical experience. We recognize product revenue from the sale of prints through Saatchi Art when the prints are delivered and the return period has expired. Payments received in advance of delivery and, with respect to the Saatchi Art prints, prior to completion of the return period are included in deferred revenue in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. Revenue is recorded at the gross amount due to the following factors: we are the primary obligor in a transaction, we have inventory and credit risk, and we have latitude in establishing prices and selecting suppliers. Product revenue is recognized net of sales allowances and return allowances. We periodically provide incentive offers to customers to encourage purchases, including percentage discounts off current purchases, free shipping and other offers. VAT, sales and other taxes are not included in revenue, as we are a pass-through conduit for collecting and remitting any such taxes.
	Service Costs
	Service costs consist of payments relating to our Internet connection and co-location charges and other platform operating expenses, including depreciation of the systems and hardware used to build and operate our content creation and distribution platform; expenses related to creating, rewriting, or auditing certain content units; and personnel costs relating to in-house editorial, customer service, information technology, as well as revenue-sharing arrangements, such as content creator revenue-sharing arrangements.
	Product Costs
	Product costs consist of outsourced product manufacturing costs, artist royalties and personnel costs.
	Shipping and Handling
	Shipping and handling charged to customers is recorded in service revenue or product revenue. Associated costs are recorded in service costs or product costs.
	Deferred Revenue
	Deferred revenue consists of amounts received from customers before we have met all four criteria for the recognition of revenue. Deferred revenue includes payments received from sales of our products on Society6 prior to delivery of such products; payments made for original art and prints sold via Saatchi Art that are collected prior to the completion of the return period; and amounts received from customers of our social media services in advance of our performance of such services. Deferred revenue for social media services is recognized as revenue on a systematic basis that is proportionate to the services that have been rendered.
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Computer equipment is amortized over two to five years, software is amortized over two to three years, and furniture and fixtures are amortized over seven to ten years. Leasehold improvements are amortized straight-line over the shorter of the remaining lease term or the estimated useful lives of the improvements ranging from one to ten years. Upon the sale or retirement of property or equipment, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or amortization is removed from our financial statements with the resulting gain or loss reflected in our results of operations. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. In the event that property and equipment is no longer in use, we will record a loss on disposal of the property and equipment, which is computed as the difference between the sales price, if any, and the net remaining value (gross amount of property and equipment less accumulated depreciation expense) of the related equipment at the date of disposal.
	Intangible Assets—Media Content
	We capitalize the direct costs incurred to acquire our media content that is determined to embody a probable future economic benefit. Costs are recognized as finite-lived intangible assets based on their acquisition cost to us. Direct content costs primarily represent amounts paid to unrelated third parties for completed content units, and to a lesser extent, specifically identifiable internal direct labor costs incurred to enhance the value of specific content units acquired prior to their publication. Internal costs not directly attributable to the enhancement of an individual content unit acquired are expensed as incurred. All costs incurred to deploy and publish content are expensed as incurred, including the costs incurred for the ongoing maintenance of our properties on which our content is published.
	Capitalized media content is amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life, which is typically five years, representing our estimate of when the underlying economic benefits are expected to be realized and based on our estimates of the projected cash flows from advertising revenue expected to be generated by the deployment of such content. These estimates are based on our plans and projections, comparison of the economic returns generated by our content with content of comparable quality and an analysis of historical cash flows generated by that content to date. Amortization of media content is included in amortization of intangible assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations and the acquisition costs are included in purchases of intangible assets within cash flows from investing activities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
	Google, Yahoo! and Bing, the largest providers of search engine referrals to the majority of our online properties, regularly deploy changes to their search engine algorithm. To date, the overall impact of these changes on search referrals to our owned and operated online properties has been negative primarily due to a decline in traffic to eHow.com, our largest website. In response to changes in search engine algorithms since 2011, we have performed evaluations of our existing content library to identify potential improvements in our content creation and distribution platform. As a result of these evaluations, we elected to remove certain content units from our content library, resulting in $18.1 million of related accelerated amortization expense since 2011. We expect to remove additional content over the next year, which may result in significant additional accelerated amortization expense in the periods such actions occur.
	Intangible Assets—Acquired in Business Combinations
	We perform valuations of assets acquired and liabilities assumed on each acquisition accounted for as a business combination and allocate the purchase price of each acquired business to our respective net tangible and intangible assets. Acquired intangible assets include: trade names, non-compete agreements, owned website names, artist relationships, customer relationships, technology, media content, and content publisher relationships. We determine the appropriate useful life by performing an analysis of expected cash flows based on historical experience of the acquired businesses. Intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method which approximates the pattern in which the economic benefits are consumed.
	Long-lived Assets
	We evaluate the recoverability of our long-lived tangible and intangible assets with finite useful lives for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Such trigger events or changes in circumstances may include: a significant decrease in the market price of a long-lived asset, a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset is being used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate, including those resulting from technology advancements in the industry, the impact of competition or other factors that could affect the value of a long-lived asset, a significant adverse deterioration in the amount of revenue or cash flows we expect to generate from an asset group, an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or development of a long-lived asset, current or future operating or cash flow losses that demonstrate continuing losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset, or a current expectation that, more likely than not, a long-lived asset will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. We perform impairment testing at the asset group level that represents the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable and the expected undiscounted future cash flows attributable to the asset group are less than the carrying amount of the asset group, an impairment loss equal to the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value is recorded. Fair value is determined based upon estimated discounted future cash flows. Assets to be disposed of would be separately presented on the balance sheets and reported at the lower of their carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and would no longer be depreciated or amortized.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the fair value of the acquired net assets. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year or when events or circumstances change in a manner that indicates goodwill might be impaired. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a loss of key personnel, significant changes in the manner of our use of the acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business, significant negative industry or economic trends, a decline in our stock price leading to an extended period when our market capitalization is less than the book value of our net assets or significant underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future results of operations.
	Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is one level below or the same as an operating segment. As of March 31, 2015, we determined that we have two reporting units. When testing goodwill for impairment, we first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is necessary to perform step one of a two-step goodwill impairment test for each reporting unit. We are required to perform step one only if we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than the carrying value of its assets. Should this be the case, the first step of the two-step process is to identify whether a potential impairment exists by comparing the estimated fair values of our reporting units with their respective carrying values, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, goodwill is not considered to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary. If, however, the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then a second step is performed to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. The amount of the impairment loss is the excess of the carrying amount of the goodwill over its implied fair value. The estimate of implied fair value of goodwill is primarily based on an estimate of the discounted cash flows expected to result from that reporting unit, but may require valuations of certain internally generated and unrecognized intangible assets such as our software, technology, patents and trademarks.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based payment awards made to employees, non-employees and directors based on the grant date fair values of the awards. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSU”) is measured based on the fair market value of the underlying stock on the date of grant. The fair value of stock options with service based vesting conditions is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. The fair value of premium-priced stock options with service based vesting conditions is estimated using the Hull-White model. We recognize stock-based compensation expense on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures) over the requisite service period. Stock-based compensation expense is classified in the consolidated statement of operations based on the department to which the related employee provides service.
	The Black-Scholes-Merton and Hull-White option pricing models require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment in determining the fair value of our awards. The most significant assumptions and judgments include the expected volatility, expected term of the award and estimated forfeiture rates. We estimated the expected volatility of our awards from the historical volatility of selected public companies with comparable characteristics to Demand Media, including similarity in size, lines of business, market capitalization, revenue and financial leverage. The weighted average expected life of options was calculated using the simplified method as prescribed under guidance by the SEC. The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury notes with terms approximately equal to the expected life of the option. The expected dividend rate is zero as we currently have no history or expectation of paying cash dividends on our common stock. The forfeiture rate is established based on applicable historical forfeiture patterns adjusted for any expected changes in future periods.
	We use the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to determine the fair value of shares issued pursuant to the Demand Media, Inc. 2010 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”), and we recognize the fair value straight-line over the total offering period.
	Stock Repurchases
	Under a stock repurchase plan, shares repurchased by us are accounted for when the transaction is settled. Repurchased shares held for future issuance are classified as treasury stock. Shares formally or constructively retired are deducted from common stock at par value and from additional paid in capital for the excess over par value. If additional paid in capital has been exhausted, the excess over par value is deducted from retained earnings. Direct costs incurred to acquire the shares are included in the total cost of the repurchased shares.
	Income Taxes
	Deferred income taxes are recognized for differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities at the enacted statutory tax rates in effect for the years in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. We evaluate the realizability of deferred tax assets and recognize a valuation allowance for our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a future benefit on such deferred tax assets will not be realized.
	We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the consolidated financial statements from such positions are then measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. We recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in our income tax (benefit) provision in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
	Net Income (Loss) Per Share
	Basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders is increased for any cumulative preferred stock dividends earned during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average common shares outstanding plus potentially dilutive common shares. RSUs and other restricted awards are considered outstanding common shares and included in the computation of basic income (loss) per share as of the date that all necessary conditions of vesting are satisfied. RSUs, stock options and stock issued pursuant to the ESPP are excluded from the diluted net income (loss) per share calculation when their impact is antidilutive.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
We report certain financial assets and liabilities at their carrying amounts. The carrying amounts of our financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, restricted cash, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and customer deposits approximate fair value because of their short maturities. For our term loans and revolving loan facility, which were repaid in full in November 2014, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because they bore interest at variable rates that approximate fair value. Our investments in marketable securities are recorded at fair value. Certain assets, including equity investments, investments held at cost, goodwill and intangible assets are also subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, if they are deemed to be impaired as the result of an impairment review.
Assets Held-For-Sale
We report a business as held-for-sale when management has approved or received approval to sell the business and is committed to a formal plan, the business is available for immediate sale, the business is being actively marketed, the sale is probable and anticipated to occur during the ensuing year and certain other specified criteria are met. A business classified as held-for-sale is recorded at the lower of its carrying amount or estimated fair value less cost to sell. If the carrying amount of the business exceeds its estimated fair value, a loss is recognized. Depreciation is not recorded on long-lived assets of a business classified as held-for-sale. Assets and liabilities related to a business classified as held-for-sale are segregated in the unaudited consolidated balance sheet and major classes are separately disclosed in the notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements commencing in the period in which the business is classified as held-for-sale.
Discontinued Operations
We report the results of operations of a business as discontinued operations if the disposal of a component represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The results of discontinued operations are reported in net income (loss) from discontinued operations in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for current and prior periods commencing in the period in which the business meets the criteria of a discontinued operation, and include any gain or loss recognized on closing or adjustment of the carrying amount to fair value less cost to sell.

Property_and_Equipment

Property and Equipment	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	3. Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31,		December 31,
		2015		2014
	Computers and other related equipment	$	27,598	$	28,776
	Purchased and internally developed software		42,902		48,875
	Furniture and fixtures		1,996		3,004
	Leasehold improvements		7,635		7,591
			80,131		88,246
	Less accumulated depreciation		-60,038		-65,410
	Property and equipment, net	$	20,093	$	22,836
	Depreciation and software amortization expense, which includes losses on disposal of property and equipment of approximately $0.3 million and $0.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, is shown by classification below (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Service costs	$	1,497	$	1,854
	Sales and marketing		20		38
	Product development		57		129
	General and administrative		1,265		1,331
	Discontinued operations		—		2,424
	Total depreciation	$	2,839	$	5,776

Intangible_Assets

Intangible Assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Intangible Assets	4. Intangible Assets
	Intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015
		Gross carrying		Accumulated		Net carrying
		amount		amortization		amount
	Customer relationships	$	7,477	$	-6,715	$	762
	Artist relationships		11,719		-5,735		5,984
	Media content		102,905		-82,499		20,406
	Technology		6,240		-2,501		3,739
	Non-compete agreements		253		-166		87
	Trade names		8,449		-3,621		4,828
	Content publisher relationships		2,092		-2,092		—
		$	139,135	$	-103,329	$	35,806
		December 31, 2014
		Gross carrying		Accumulated		Net carrying
		amount		amortization		amount
	Customer relationships	$	9,569	$	-8,730	$	839
	Artist relationships		11,719		-4,796		6,923
	Media content		103,415		-80,249		23,166
	Technology		27,770		-23,293		4,477
	Non-compete agreements		253		-146		107
	Trade names		10,478		-5,467		5,011
	Content publisher relationships		2,092		-2,080		12
		$	165,296	$	-124,761	$	40,535
	Identifiable finite-lived intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives commencing on the date that the asset is available for its intended use.
	Total amortization expense for the periods shown is classified as shown below (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Service costs	$	2,835	$	6,212
	Sales and marketing		1,016		2,152
	Product development		701		1,186
	General and administrative		159		388
	Discontinued operations		—		1,691
	Total amortization	$	4,711	$	11,629
	Service costs include accelerated amortization charges that were less than $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and $1.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 as a result of removing certain assets from service.

Other_Assets

Other Assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Assets	5. Other Assets
	Other assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31,		December 31,
		2015		2014
	Long-term portion of promissory note	$	4,601	$	4,505
	Other		1,321		1,550
	Other assets	$	5,922	$	6,055

Other_Balance_Sheet_Items

Other Balance Sheet Items	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Balance Sheet Items	6. Other Balance Sheet Items
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31,		December 31,
		2015		2014
	Accrued payroll and related items	$	3,640	$	4,291
	Acquisition holdback		9,029		8,958
	Commission payable		979		1,183
	Other		7,750		9,793
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	$	21,398	$	24,225

Debt

Debt	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	7. Debt
	In November 2014, we repaid all amounts outstanding under our credit agreement, dated August 29, 2013, with Silicon Valley Bank, as administrative agent, and the lenders and other agents party thereto (the “Credit Agreement”) and terminated the Credit Agreement and the related Guarantee and Collateral Agreement. The Credit Agreement had provided for a $100.0 million senior secured term loan facility and a $125.0 million senior secured revolving loan facility. Under the Credit Agreement, loans bore interest, at our option, at an annual rate based on LIBOR or a base rate. Loans based on LIBOR bore interest at a rate between LIBOR plus 2.00% and LIBOR plus 3.00%, depending on our consolidated leverage ratio. Loans based on the base rate bore interest at the base rate plus an applicable margin of 1.00% or 2.00%, depending on our consolidated leverage ratio. We were also required to pay a commitment fee between 0.20% and 0.40% per annum, depending on our consolidated leverage ratio, on the undrawn portion available under the credit facility.
	In connection with entering into the Credit Agreement in August 2013, we incurred debt issuance costs of $1.9 million. Debt issuance costs are capitalized and amortized into interest expense over the term of the underlying debt. During the three months ended March 31, 2014 we amortized $0.1 million of deferred debt issuance costs.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	8. Commitments and Contingencies
	Leases
	We conduct our operations utilizing leased office facilities in various locations and lease certain equipment under non-cancelable operating and capital leases. Our leases expire between December 2015 and February 2020.
	Litigation
	On November 5, 2014, Charles Saatchi filed a lawsuit against our wholly owned subsidiary, Saatchi Online, Inc. (“Saatchi Art”), in the High Court of Justice, Chancery Division (United Kingdom) relating to an intellectual property licensing agreement (the “IP Agreement”) between Charles Saatchi and Saatchi Art, dated February 18, 2010. Mr. Saatchi alleges that Saatchi Art committed a repudiatory breach of the IP Agreement, effectively terminating it, and that Saatchi Art must cease using the “Saatchi” name. Mr. Saatchi is seeking a permanent injunction restricting Saatchi Art from continuing to use the “Saatchi” name, a declaration that the IP Agreement has been validly terminated, a disgorgement of any profits derived from Saatchi Art’s use of the name since the alleged termination date and unspecified monetary damages. We do not believe that the conduct alleged by Mr. Saatchi constitutes a repudiatory breach of the IP Agreement and intend to vigorously defend the lawsuit. We have filed an Application for Summary Judgment, or Strike Out of Claimant’s Claim, with the High Court of Justice, Chancery Division (United Kingdom). The litigation is in its early stages.
	On December 30, 2014, Charles Saatchi and Robert Norton, common stockholders of Saatchi Art prior to its acquisition by Demand Media, filed a lawsuit in the Delaware Chancery Court against the former directors, certain former officers and certain former preferred stockholders of Saatchi Art, and Saatchi Art itself. Messrs. Saatchi and Norton allege that, in connection with Demand Media’s acquisition of Saatchi Art, (i) the former directors and officers named in the lawsuit breached their fiduciary duties to the common stockholders; (ii) certain preferred stockholders of Saatchi Art breached their fiduciary duties to the common stockholders, aided and abetted the former officers’ and directors’ breach of their fiduciary duties and violated a Saatchi Art voting agreement by breaching the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing; and (iii) Saatchi Art violated the voting agreement by breaching the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing. The complaint seeks rescissory damages, a constructive trust over the acquisition proceeds, disgorgement of all profits related thereto, and unspecified compensatory damages, costs and fees. We believe that we are entitled to indemnification with respect to any losses incurred by us related to these claims under the terms of the merger agreement, although there can be no assurance that we will be successful in recovering such losses, if any. The litigation is in its early stages.
	In addition, from time to time we are a party to various legal matters incidental to the conduct of our businesses. Certain of our outstanding legal matters include speculative claims for indeterminate amounts of damages. We record a liability when we believe that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Based on our current knowledge, we do not believe that there is a reasonable possibility that the final outcome of the pending or threatened legal proceedings to which we are a party, either individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our future financial results. However, the outcome of such legal matters is subject to significant uncertainties.
	Taxes
	From time to time, various federal, state and other jurisdictional tax authorities undertake review of us and our filings. In evaluating the exposure associated with various tax filing positions, we accrue charges for possible exposures. The Company’s 2012 federal income tax return is currently under Internal revenue service (“IRS”) audit. We believe any adjustments that may ultimately be required as a result of any of these reviews will not be material to our consolidated financial statements.
	Indemnification
	In the normal course of business, we have provided certain indemnities, commitments and guarantees under which we may be required to make payments in relation to certain transactions. These indemnities include intellectual property indemnities to our customers, indemnities to our directors and officers to the maximum extent permitted under the laws of the State of Delaware, indemnifications related to our lease agreements and indemnifications to sellers or buyers in connection with acquisitions and dispositions, respectively. In addition, our advertiser and distribution partner agreements contain certain indemnification provisions which are generally consistent with those prevalent in our industry. We have not incurred significant obligations under indemnification provisions historically and do not expect to incur significant obligations in the future. Accordingly, we have not recorded any liability for these indemnities, commitments and guarantees in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	9. Income Taxes
	Our effective tax rate differs from the statutory rate primarily as a result of state taxes, foreign taxes, nondeductible stock option expenses and changes in our valuation allowance.
	Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2015, decreased by $2.4 million to less than $0.1 million compared to $2.4 million in the same period in 2014. The decrease is primarily due to the impairment of goodwill which allowed for the reversal of the deferred tax liability related to the tax amortization of goodwill and a full valuation allowance.
	We reduce our deferred tax assets resulting from future tax benefits by a valuation allowance if, based on the weight of the available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of these deferred taxes will not be realized. The timing of the reversal of deferred tax liabilities associated with tax deductible goodwill is not certain and thus not available to assure the realization of deferred tax assets. Due to the limitation associated with deferred tax liabilities from tax deductible goodwill, we have deferred tax assets in excess of deferred tax liabilities before application of a valuation allowance for the periods presented. As we have insufficient history of generating book income, the ultimate future realization of these excess deferred tax assets is not more likely than not and is thus subject to a valuation allowance. Accordingly, we have established a full valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets.
	We are subject to the accounting guidance for uncertain income tax positions. We believe that our income tax positions and deductions will be sustained on audit and do not anticipate any adjustments will result in a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flow. We acquired a $0.1 million uncertain tax position as a result of a business acquisition during 2011.
	Our policy for recording interest and penalties associated with audits and uncertain tax positions is to record such items as a component of income tax expense, and amounts recognized to date are insignificant. No uncertain income tax positions were recorded during the three months ended March 31, 2015 or 2014 other than the acquired uncertain tax position, and we do not expect our uncertain tax position to change materially during the next twelve months. We file a U.S. federal and many state tax returns as well as tax returns in multiple foreign jurisdictions. All tax years since our incorporation remain subject to examination by the IRS and various state authorities.  The IRS is currently conducting an audit of our 2012 tax return.

Employee_Benefit_Plan

Employee Benefit Plan	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plan	10. Employee Benefit Plan
	We have a defined contribution plan (the “401(k) Plan”) under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended  covering all full-time employees who meet certain eligibility requirements. Eligible employees may defer up to 90% of their pre-tax eligible compensation, up to the annual maximum allowed by the IRS. Under the 401(k) Plan, we may, but are not obligated to, match a portion of the employee contributions up to a defined maximum. During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we incurred approximately $0.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively, in employer contributions under the 401(k) Plan, and we expect to incur approximately $0.9 million for the remainder of the current fiscal year.

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation Plans and Awards	11. Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards
	Stock-based Compensation Expense
	Stock-based compensation expense related to all employee and non-employee stock-based awards recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations was as follows (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Service costs	$	314	$	289
	Sales and marketing		181		153
	Product development		469		685
	General and administrative		1,271		2,637
	Discontinued operations		—		1,503
	Total stock-based compensation	$	2,235	$	5,267
	Award Activity
	Stock Options
	Stock option activity is as follows (in thousands):
		Numbers of
		options
		outstanding
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014	3,473
	Options granted	404
	Options exercised	-7
	Options forfeited or cancelled	-375
	Outstanding at March 31, 2015	3,495
	Restricted Stock Units
	Restricted stock unit activity is as follows (in thousands):
		Shares
	Unvested at December 31, 2014	857
	Granted	630
	Vested	-93
	Forfeited	-102
	Unvested at March 31, 2015	1,292
	Employee Stock Purchase Plan
	In 2010, we established our ESPP, which allows eligible employees to purchase, through payroll deductions, a limited amount of our common stock at a discounted price. The ESPP provides up to a 24-month offering period which is comprised of four consecutive six-month purchase periods commencing in May and November. We commenced our first offering period in May 2011 and our most recent offering period in November 2014. Under the ESPP, participants can purchase our common stock at a 15% discount to the lower of our common stock’s market price as of the beginning or ending of the relevant offering period. Participants can authorize payroll deductions for amounts up to the lesser of 15% of their qualifying wages or the statutory limit under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. A maximum of 750 shares of common stock may be purchased by each participant during each purchase period. The fair value of the shares issued pursuant to the ESPP is determined using a Black-Scholes-Merton model and is amortized over the remaining life of the 24-month offering period of the ESPP. The Black-Scholes-Merton model included an assumption for expected volatility of between 58% and 60% for each of the four purchase periods during the current offering period. During the three months ended March 31, 2015, we recognized $0.1 million of expense in relation to the ESPP and there were approximately 1.8 million shares of common stock remaining authorized for issuance under the ESPP at March 31, 2015. As of March 31, 2015 there was approximately $0.4 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to the ESPP which is expected to be recognized on a straight line basis over the remainder of the offering period.

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	12. Stockholders’ Equity
	Reverse Stock Split
	On August 1, 2014, immediately following the Distribution, we enacted a 1-for-5  reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock, including shares held in treasury, which is reflected retrospectively throughout the condensed consolidated financial statements.
	Stock Repurchases
	Under our February 8, 2012 stock repurchase plan, as amended, we are authorized to repurchase up to $50.0 million of our common stock from time to time. Since April 2013, we have not repurchased any shares of common stock. Approximately $19.2 million remains available under the repurchase plan at March 31, 2015. The timing and actual number of shares repurchased will depend on various factors including price, corporate and regulatory requirements, debt covenant requirements, alternative investment opportunities and other market conditions.
	Shares repurchased by us are accounted for when the transaction is settled. As of March 31, 2015, there were no unsettled share repurchases. The par value of shares repurchased and retired is deducted from common stock and any excess over par value is deducted from additional paid in capital. Direct costs incurred to repurchase the shares are included in the total cost of the shares.
	Other
	Each share of common stock has the right to one vote per share.

Business_Segments

Business Segments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segments	13. Business Segments
	We operate in one operating segment. Our chief operating decision maker (the “CODM”) manages our operations on a consolidated basis for purposes of evaluating financial performance and allocating resources. The CODM reviews separate revenue information for its Content & Media and Marketplace offerings. All other financial information is reviewed by the CODM on a consolidated basis. All of our principal operations and assets are located in the United States.
	Revenue derived from our Content & Media and Marketplaces service offerings is as follows (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Content & Media	$	22,525	$	38,326
	Marketplaces		10,685		6,730
	Total revenue	$	33,210	$	45,056
	Revenue by geographic region, as determined based on the location of our customers or anticipated destination of use, was as follows:
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Domestic	$	28,768	$	40,495
	International		4,442		4,561
	Total revenue	$	33,210	$	45,056

Fair_Value

Fair Value	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value	14. Fair Value
	Fair value represents the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We measure our financial assets and liabilities in three levels, based on the markets in which the assets and liabilities are traded and the reliability of the assumptions used to determine fair value.
		—		Level 1—valuations for assets and liabilities traded in active exchange markets, or interest in open-end mutual funds that allow a company to sell its ownership interest back at net asset value on a daily basis. Valuations are obtained from readily available pricing sources for market transactions involving identical assets, liabilities or funds.
		—		Level 2—valuations for assets and liabilities traded in less active dealer or broker markets, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities or quoted prices in markets that are not active. Level 2 includes U.S. Treasury, U.S. government and agency debt securities, and certain corporate obligations. Valuations are usually obtained from third-party pricing services for identical or comparable assets or liabilities.
		—		Level 3—valuations for assets and liabilities that are derived from other valuation methodologies, such as option pricing models, discounted cash flow models and similar techniques, and not based on market exchange, dealer, or broker traded transactions. Level 3 valuations incorporate certain assumptions and projections in determining the fair value assigned to such assets or liabilities.
	In determining fair value, we utilize valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs to the extent possible and consider counterparty credit risk in our assessment of fair value.
	For financial assets that utilize Level 1 and Level 2 inputs, we utilize both direct and indirect observable price quotes, including quoted market prices (Level 1 inputs) or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data (Level 2 inputs). For financial assets that utilize Level 3 inputs, we derive the fair value based on company assumptions and information obtained from brokers based on the indicated market values.
	We report certain financial assets and liabilities at their carrying amounts. The carrying amounts of our financial instruments, which include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, restricted cash, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and customer deposits, approximate fair value because of their short maturities. The carrying amount for amounts that were outstanding under our terminated credit facility approximates fair value because the loans bore interest at variable rates that approximated fair value. Our investments in marketable securities are recorded at fair value. Certain assets, including equity investments, investments held at cost, goodwill and intangible assets, are also subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, if they are deemed to be impaired as the result of an impairment review.
	Financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in thousands):
			Balance at March 31, 2015
			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Cash equivalents (1)		$	5,002	$	—	$	—	$	5,002
	Promissory note			—		—		5,053		5,053
			$	5,002	$	—	$	5,053	$	10,055
			Balance at December 31, 2014
			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Cash equivalents (1)		$	5,000	$	—	$	—	$	5,000
	Promissory note			—		—		4,946		4,946
			$	5,000	$	—	$	4,946	$	9,946
	(1) Comprises money market funds which are included in Cash and cash equivalents in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.
	During the three months ended March 31, 2015, we increased the fair value of the promissory note by $0.1 million to its current estimated fair value.

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Share

Net Income (Loss) Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income (Loss) Per Share	15. Net Loss Per Share
	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per share of common stock (in thousands, except per share data):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	-6,749	$	-8,946
	Net loss from discontinued operations		—		-2,010
	Net loss	$	-6,749	$	-10,956
	Weighted average common shares outstanding		19,773		18,175
	Weighted average unvested restricted stock awards		—		-4
	Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic and diluted		19,773		18,171
	Earnings per share—basic and diluted
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	-0.34	$	-0.49
	Net loss from discontinued operations		—		-0.11
	Net loss per share	$	-0.34	$	-0.6
	For each of the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 we excluded 0.1 million shares from the calculation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding, as their inclusion would have been antidilutive.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	16. Discontinued Operations
	On August 1, 2014, we completed the Separation of Rightside from Demand Media. As a result of the Separation, the financial results of Rightside are presented as discontinued operations in our consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2014. Following the Separation, the following activity in our statement of operations was reclassified from continuing operations to discontinued operations:
		Three months ended
		March 31, 2014
	Service revenue	$	44,696
	Operating expenses:
	Service costs		38,469
	Sales and marketing		2,800
	Product and development		4,049
	General and administrative		5,866
	Amortization of intangible assets		1,691
	Total operating expenses		52,875
	Operating loss		-8,179
	Other income, net		6,192
	Loss before income taxes		-1,987
	Income tax expense		-23
	Net loss	$	-2,010

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Summ1

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying interim condensed consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2015, the condensed consolidated statements of operations and condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 and the condensed consolidated statement of stockholders’ equity for the three month period ended March 31, 2015 are unaudited.
	In the opinion of management, the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as the audited consolidated financial statements and include all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of our statement of financial position as of March 31, 2015 and our results of operations for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014 and our cash flows for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014. The results for the three month period ended March 31, 2015 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full year. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 has been derived from our audited financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	The interim unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) in the United States, for interim financial information and with the instructions to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. They do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Therefore, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto, included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 filed with the SEC.
	Our common stock share information and related per share amounts included in the condensed consolidated financial statements have been adjusted retroactively for all periods presented to reflect the 1-for-5 reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock, including shares held in treasury, that was effected on August 1, 2014.
	The financial results of Rightside are presented as discontinued operations in our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2014. For additional information relating to our previous domain name services business, please refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Demand Media and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Acquisitions are included in our consolidated financial statements from the date of the acquisition. Our purchase accounting resulted in all assets and liabilities of acquired businesses being recorded at their estimated fair values on the acquisition dates. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the 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. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include revenue, allowance for doubtful accounts, investments in equity interests, the assigned value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities in business combinations, useful lives and impairment of property and equipment, intangible assets, goodwill and other assets, the fair value of equity-based compensation awards, and deferred income tax assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates compared to historical experience and trends, which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of our assets and liabilities.
Investments in Equity	Investments in Equity
	We account for investments in companies that we do not control or account for under the equity method of accounting either at fair value or using the cost method of accounting, as applicable. Investments in equity securities are carried at fair value if the fair value of the security is readily determinable. Equity investments carried at fair value are classified as marketable securities available-for-sale. Realized gains and losses for marketable securities available-for-sale are included in other income (expense), net in our consolidated statements of operations. Unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, on marketable securities available-for-sale are included in our consolidated financial statements as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) and accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”), until realized.
	Investments in companies that we do not control or account for under the equity method, and for which we do not have readily determinable fair values, are accounted for under the cost method. Cost method investments are originally recorded at cost. In determining whether other-than-temporary impairment exists for equity securities, management considers: (1) the length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than cost, (2) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer and (3) our intent and ability to retain our investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair value.
	The cost of marketable securities sold is based upon the specific accounting method used. Any realized gains or losses on the sale of equity investments are reflected as a component of interest income or expense. During the first quarter of 2014, we sold all of these marketable securities, resulting in a reclassification from other comprehensive income of $0.9 million of unrealized gains on marketable securities, which is currently recorded in discontinued operations. The sale of our marketable securities resulted in total realized gains of $1.4 million related to the sale of our marketable securities, which are included in discontinued operations.
	We classify marketable securities as current or non-current based upon whether such assets are reasonably expected to be realized in cash or sold or consumed during the normal operating cycle of the business.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition
	We recognize revenue when four basic criteria are met: persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists; performance of services has occurred; the sales price is fixed or determinable; and collectability is reasonably assured. We consider persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement to be the receipt of a signed contract. Collectability is assessed based on a number of factors, including transaction history and the credit worthiness of a customer. If it is determined that collection is not reasonably assured, revenue is not recognized until collection becomes reasonably assured, which is generally upon receipt of cash. We record cash received in advance of revenue recognition as deferred revenue.
	For arrangements with multiple deliverables, we allocate revenue to each deliverable if the delivered item(s) has value to the customer on a standalone basis and, if the arrangement includes a general right of return relative to the delivered item, delivery or performance of the undelivered item(s) is considered probable and substantially in our control. The fair value of the selling price for a deliverable is determined using a hierarchy of (1) company-specific objective and reliable evidence, then (2) third-party evidence, then (3) best estimate of selling price. We allocate any arrangement fee to each of the elements based on their relative selling prices.
	Our revenue is principally derived from the following services and products:
	Service Revenue
	Content & Media
	Advertising Revenue. We generate revenue from advertisements displayed alongside our content on our online properties and certain of our customers’ online properties. Articles, videos and other forms of content generate advertising revenue from a diverse mix of advertising methods including performance-based cost-per-click advertising, in which an advertiser pays only when a visitor clicks on an advertisement; display advertisements, where revenue is dependent upon the number of advertising impressions delivered; and sponsored content or advertising links. In determining whether an arrangement exists, we ensure that a binding arrangement is in place, such as a standard insertion order or a fully executed customer-specific agreement. Obligations pursuant to our advertising revenue arrangements typically include a minimum number of impressions or the satisfaction of other performance criteria. Revenue from performance-based arrangements is recognized as the related performance criteria are met. We assess whether performance criteria have been met and whether the fees are fixed or determinable based on a reconciliation of the performance criteria and an analysis of the payment terms associated with the transaction. The reconciliation of the performance criteria generally includes a comparison of third-party performance data to the contractual performance obligation and to internal or customer performance data in circumstances where that data is available.
	Where we enter into revenue-sharing arrangements with our customers, such as those relating to our advertiser network, and when we are considered the primary obligor, we report the underlying revenue on a gross basis in our consolidated statements of operations, and record these revenue-sharing payments to our customers in service costs.
	Social Media Services. Prior to the sale of our Pluck social media business in February 2015, we configured, hosted, and maintained our platform social media services under private-labeled versions of software for commercial customers. We earned revenue from our social media services through recurring management support fees, overage fees in excess of standard usage terms, outside consulting fees and initial set-up fees. Due to the fact that social media services customers had no contractual right to take possession of our private-labeled software, we accounted for our social media services revenue as service arrangements. Social media services revenue was recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery of the service has occurred and no significant obligations remain, the selling price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. In February 2015, we sold our Pluck social media business and we no longer provide any social media services. The consideration we received for Pluck was a $3.8 million cash payment after working capital adjustments, resulting in a gain of $2.9 million, which is recorded in other income (expense), net.
	Content Sales and Licensing Revenue. We also generate revenue from the sale or license of media content, including the creation and distribution of content for third party brands, publishers and advertisers through our Content Solutions service. Revenue from the sale or perpetual license of media content is recognized when the content has been delivered and the contractual performance obligations have been fulfilled. Revenue from the license of media content is recognized over the period of the license as content is delivered or when other related performance criteria are fulfilled. In circumstances where we distribute our content on third-party properties and the customer acts as the primary obligor, we recognize revenue on a net basis.
	Marketplaces
	Art Commissions Revenue. We generate service revenue from commissions we receive from facilitating the sale of original art by artists to customers through Saatchi Art. We recognize service revenue arising from the sale of original art net of amounts paid to the artist because we are not the primary obligor in the transaction, we do not have inventory risk, and we do not establish the prices for the art sold. We also recognize this service revenue net of any sales allowances. Revenue is recognized after the original art has been delivered and the return period has expired. Payments received in advance of delivery and completion of the return period are included in deferred revenue in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. We periodically provide incentive offers to customers to encourage purchases, including percentage discounts off current purchases, free shipping and other offers. Value-added taxes (“VAT’), sales and other taxes are not included in revenue because we are a pass-through conduit for collecting and remitting any such taxes.
	Product Revenue
	Marketplaces
	We recognize product revenue from sales of Society6 products upon delivery, net of estimated returns based on historical experience. We recognize product revenue from the sale of prints through Saatchi Art when the prints are delivered and the return period has expired. Payments received in advance of delivery and, with respect to the Saatchi Art prints, prior to completion of the return period are included in deferred revenue in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets. Revenue is recorded at the gross amount due to the following factors: we are the primary obligor in a transaction, we have inventory and credit risk, and we have latitude in establishing prices and selecting suppliers. Product revenue is recognized net of sales allowances and return allowances. We periodically provide incentive offers to customers to encourage purchases, including percentage discounts off current purchases, free shipping and other offers. VAT, sales and other taxes are not included in revenue, as we are a pass-through conduit for collecting and remitting any such taxes.
Service Costs	Service Costs
	Service costs consist of payments relating to our Internet connection and co-location charges and other platform operating expenses, including depreciation of the systems and hardware used to build and operate our content creation and distribution platform; expenses related to creating, rewriting, or auditing certain content units; and personnel costs relating to in-house editorial, customer service, information technology, as well as revenue-sharing arrangements, such as content creator revenue-sharing arrangements.
Product Cost	Product Costs
	Product costs consist of outsourced product manufacturing costs, artist royalties and personnel costs.
Shipping and Handling	Shipping and Handling
	Shipping and handling charged to customers is recorded in service revenue or product revenue. Associated costs are recorded in service costs or product costs.
Deferred Revenue	Deferred Revenue
	Deferred revenue consists of amounts received from customers before we have met all four criteria for the recognition of revenue. Deferred revenue includes payments received from sales of our products on Society6 prior to delivery of such products; payments made for original art and prints sold via Saatchi Art that are collected prior to the completion of the return period; and amounts received from customers of our social media services in advance of our performance of such services. Deferred revenue for social media services is recognized as revenue on a systematic basis that is proportionate to the services that have been rendered.
Property and equipment	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Computer equipment is amortized over two to five years, software is amortized over two to three years, and furniture and fixtures are amortized over seven to ten years. Leasehold improvements are amortized straight-line over the shorter of the remaining lease term or the estimated useful lives of the improvements ranging from one to ten years. Upon the sale or retirement of property or equipment, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or amortization is removed from our financial statements with the resulting gain or loss reflected in our results of operations. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. In the event that property and equipment is no longer in use, we will record a loss on disposal of the property and equipment, which is computed as the difference between the sales price, if any, and the net remaining value (gross amount of property and equipment less accumulated depreciation expense) of the related equipment at the date of disposal.
Intangibles Assets	Intangible Assets—Media Content
	We capitalize the direct costs incurred to acquire our media content that is determined to embody a probable future economic benefit. Costs are recognized as finite-lived intangible assets based on their acquisition cost to us. Direct content costs primarily represent amounts paid to unrelated third parties for completed content units, and to a lesser extent, specifically identifiable internal direct labor costs incurred to enhance the value of specific content units acquired prior to their publication. Internal costs not directly attributable to the enhancement of an individual content unit acquired are expensed as incurred. All costs incurred to deploy and publish content are expensed as incurred, including the costs incurred for the ongoing maintenance of our properties on which our content is published.
	Capitalized media content is amortized on a straight-line basis over its useful life, which is typically five years, representing our estimate of when the underlying economic benefits are expected to be realized and based on our estimates of the projected cash flows from advertising revenue expected to be generated by the deployment of such content. These estimates are based on our plans and projections, comparison of the economic returns generated by our content with content of comparable quality and an analysis of historical cash flows generated by that content to date. Amortization of media content is included in amortization of intangible assets in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations and the acquisition costs are included in purchases of intangible assets within cash flows from investing activities in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
	Google, Yahoo! and Bing, the largest providers of search engine referrals to the majority of our online properties, regularly deploy changes to their search engine algorithm. To date, the overall impact of these changes on search referrals to our owned and operated online properties has been negative primarily due to a decline in traffic to eHow.com, our largest website. In response to changes in search engine algorithms since 2011, we have performed evaluations of our existing content library to identify potential improvements in our content creation and distribution platform. As a result of these evaluations, we elected to remove certain content units from our content library, resulting in $18.1 million of related accelerated amortization expense since 2011. We expect to remove additional content over the next year, which may result in significant additional accelerated amortization expense in the periods such actions occur.
	Intangible Assets—Acquired in Business Combinations
	We perform valuations of assets acquired and liabilities assumed on each acquisition accounted for as a business combination and allocate the purchase price of each acquired business to our respective net tangible and intangible assets. Acquired intangible assets include: trade names, non-compete agreements, owned website names, artist relationships, customer relationships, technology, media content, and content publisher relationships. We determine the appropriate useful life by performing an analysis of expected cash flows based on historical experience of the acquired businesses. Intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method which approximates the pattern in which the economic benefits are consumed.
Long-lived Assets	Long-lived Assets
	We evaluate the recoverability of our long-lived tangible and intangible assets with finite useful lives for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Such trigger events or changes in circumstances may include: a significant decrease in the market price of a long-lived asset, a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset is being used, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate, including those resulting from technology advancements in the industry, the impact of competition or other factors that could affect the value of a long-lived asset, a significant adverse deterioration in the amount of revenue or cash flows we expect to generate from an asset group, an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or development of a long-lived asset, current or future operating or cash flow losses that demonstrate continuing losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset, or a current expectation that, more likely than not, a long-lived asset will be sold or otherwise disposed of significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. We perform impairment testing at the asset group level that represents the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable and the expected undiscounted future cash flows attributable to the asset group are less than the carrying amount of the asset group, an impairment loss equal to the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value is recorded. Fair value is determined based upon estimated discounted future cash flows. Assets to be disposed of would be separately presented on the balance sheets and reported at the lower of their carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and would no longer be depreciated or amortized.
Goodwill	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired entity over the fair value of the acquired net assets. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually during the fourth quarter of our fiscal year or when events or circumstances change in a manner that indicates goodwill might be impaired. Events or circumstances that could trigger an impairment review include, but are not limited to, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a loss of key personnel, significant changes in the manner of our use of the acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business, significant negative industry or economic trends, a decline in our stock price leading to an extended period when our market capitalization is less than the book value of our net assets or significant underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future results of operations.
	Goodwill is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is one level below or the same as an operating segment. As of March 31, 2015, we determined that we have two reporting units. When testing goodwill for impairment, we first perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is necessary to perform step one of a two-step goodwill impairment test for each reporting unit. We are required to perform step one only if we conclude that it is more likely than not that a reporting unit’s fair value is less than the carrying value of its assets. Should this be the case, the first step of the two-step process is to identify whether a potential impairment exists by comparing the estimated fair values of our reporting units with their respective carrying values, including goodwill. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, goodwill is not considered to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary. If, however, the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value, then a second step is performed to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. The amount of the impairment loss is the excess of the carrying amount of the goodwill over its implied fair value. The estimate of implied fair value of goodwill is primarily based on an estimate of the discounted cash flows expected to result from that reporting unit, but may require valuations of certain internally generated and unrecognized intangible assets such as our software, technology, patents and trademarks.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation
	We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based payment awards made to employees, non-employees and directors based on the grant date fair values of the awards. The fair value of restricted stock units (“RSU”) is measured based on the fair market value of the underlying stock on the date of grant. The fair value of stock options with service based vesting conditions is estimated using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. The fair value of premium-priced stock options with service based vesting conditions is estimated using the Hull-White model. We recognize stock-based compensation expense on a straight-line basis (net of estimated forfeitures) over the requisite service period. Stock-based compensation expense is classified in the consolidated statement of operations based on the department to which the related employee provides service.
	The Black-Scholes-Merton and Hull-White option pricing models require management to make assumptions and to apply judgment in determining the fair value of our awards. The most significant assumptions and judgments include the expected volatility, expected term of the award and estimated forfeiture rates. We estimated the expected volatility of our awards from the historical volatility of selected public companies with comparable characteristics to Demand Media, including similarity in size, lines of business, market capitalization, revenue and financial leverage. The weighted average expected life of options was calculated using the simplified method as prescribed under guidance by the SEC. The risk-free interest rate is based on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury notes with terms approximately equal to the expected life of the option. The expected dividend rate is zero as we currently have no history or expectation of paying cash dividends on our common stock. The forfeiture rate is established based on applicable historical forfeiture patterns adjusted for any expected changes in future periods.
	We use the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model to determine the fair value of shares issued pursuant to the Demand Media, Inc. 2010 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”), and we recognize the fair value straight-line over the total offering period.
Stock Repurchases	Stock Repurchases
	Under a stock repurchase plan, shares repurchased by us are accounted for when the transaction is settled. Repurchased shares held for future issuance are classified as treasury stock. Shares formally or constructively retired are deducted from common stock at par value and from additional paid in capital for the excess over par value. If additional paid in capital has been exhausted, the excess over par value is deducted from retained earnings. Direct costs incurred to acquire the shares are included in the total cost of the repurchased shares.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	Deferred income taxes are recognized for differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities at the enacted statutory tax rates in effect for the years in which the temporary differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. We evaluate the realizability of deferred tax assets and recognize a valuation allowance for our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a future benefit on such deferred tax assets will not be realized.
	We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the consolidated financial statements from such positions are then measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. We recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in our income tax (benefit) provision in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share	Net Income (Loss) Per Share
	Basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders is increased for any cumulative preferred stock dividends earned during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing the net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average common shares outstanding plus potentially dilutive common shares. RSUs and other restricted awards are considered outstanding common shares and included in the computation of basic income (loss) per share as of the date that all necessary conditions of vesting are satisfied. RSUs, stock options and stock issued pursuant to the ESPP are excluded from the diluted net income (loss) per share calculation when their impact is antidilutive.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	We report certain financial assets and liabilities at their carrying amounts. The carrying amounts of our financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, restricted cash, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and customer deposits approximate fair value because of their short maturities. For our term loans and revolving loan facility, which were repaid in full in November 2014, the carrying amounts approximate fair value because they bore interest at variable rates that approximate fair value. Our investments in marketable securities are recorded at fair value. Certain assets, including equity investments, investments held at cost, goodwill and intangible assets are also subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, if they are deemed to be impaired as the result of an impairment review.
Assets Held-for-Sale	Assets Held-For-Sale
	We report a business as held-for-sale when management has approved or received approval to sell the business and is committed to a formal plan, the business is available for immediate sale, the business is being actively marketed, the sale is probable and anticipated to occur during the ensuing year and certain other specified criteria are met. A business classified as held-for-sale is recorded at the lower of its carrying amount or estimated fair value less cost to sell. If the carrying amount of the business exceeds its estimated fair value, a loss is recognized. Depreciation is not recorded on long-lived assets of a business classified as held-for-sale. Assets and liabilities related to a business classified as held-for-sale are segregated in the unaudited consolidated balance sheet and major classes are separately disclosed in the notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements commencing in the period in which the business is classified as held-for-sale.
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations
	We report the results of operations of a business as discontinued operations if the disposal of a component represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. The results of discontinued operations are reported in net income (loss) from discontinued operations in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for current and prior periods commencing in the period in which the business meets the criteria of a discontinued operation, and include any gain or loss recognized on closing or adjustment of the carrying amount to fair value less cost to sell.

Property_and_Equipment_Tables

Property and Equipment (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	Property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31,		December 31,
		2015		2014
	Computers and other related equipment	$	27,598	$	28,776
	Purchased and internally developed software		42,902		48,875
	Furniture and fixtures		1,996		3,004
	Leasehold improvements		7,635		7,591
			80,131		88,246
	Less accumulated depreciation		-60,038		-65,410
	Property and equipment, net	$	20,093	$	22,836
Schedule of Depreciation Expense	shown by classification below (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Service costs	$	1,497	$	1,854
	Sales and marketing		20		38
	Product development		57		129
	General and administrative		1,265		1,331
	Discontinued operations		—		2,424
	Total depreciation	$	2,839	$	5,776

Intangible_Assets_Tables

Intangible Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Intangible Assets	Intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015
		Gross carrying		Accumulated		Net carrying
		amount		amortization		amount
	Customer relationships	$	7,477	$	-6,715	$	762
	Artist relationships		11,719		-5,735		5,984
	Media content		102,905		-82,499		20,406
	Technology		6,240		-2,501		3,739
	Non-compete agreements		253		-166		87
	Trade names		8,449		-3,621		4,828
	Content publisher relationships		2,092		-2,092		—
		$	139,135	$	-103,329	$	35,806
		December 31, 2014
		Gross carrying		Accumulated		Net carrying
		amount		amortization		amount
	Customer relationships	$	9,569	$	-8,730	$	839
	Artist relationships		11,719		-4,796		6,923
	Media content		103,415		-80,249		23,166
	Technology		27,770		-23,293		4,477
	Non-compete agreements		253		-146		107
	Trade names		10,478		-5,467		5,011
	Content publisher relationships		2,092		-2,080		12
		$	165,296	$	-124,761	$	40,535
Amortization Expense by Classification	Total amortization expense for the periods shown is classified as shown below (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Service costs	$	2,835	$	6,212
	Sales and marketing		1,016		2,152
	Product development		701		1,186
	General and administrative		159		388
	Discontinued operations		—		1,691
	Total amortization	$	4,711	$	11,629

Other_Assets_Tables

Other Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Other Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Long Term Assets	Other assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31,		December 31,
		2015		2014
	Long-term portion of promissory note	$	4,601	$	4,505
	Other		1,321		1,550
	Other assets	$	5,922	$	6,055

Other_Balance_Sheet_Items_Tabl

Other Balance Sheet Items (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31,		December 31,
		2015		2014
	Accrued payroll and related items	$	3,640	$	4,291
	Acquisition holdback		9,029		8,958
	Commission payable		979		1,183
	Other		7,750		9,793
	Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	$	21,398	$	24,225

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_1

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation Expense	Stock-based compensation expense related to all employee and non-employee stock-based awards recognized in the condensed consolidated statements of operations was as follows (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Service costs	$	314	$	289
	Sales and marketing		181		153
	Product development		469		685
	General and administrative		1,271		2,637
	Discontinued operations		—		1,503
	Total stock-based compensation	$	2,235	$	5,267
Stock Options Activity	Stock option activity is as follows (in thousands):
		Numbers of
		options
		outstanding
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014	3,473
	Options granted	404
	Options exercised	-7
	Options forfeited or cancelled	-375
	Outstanding at March 31, 2015	3,495
Restricted Stock Unit Activity	Restricted stock unit activity is as follows (in thousands):
		Shares
	Unvested at December 31, 2014	857
	Granted	630
	Vested	-93
	Forfeited	-102
	Unvested at March 31, 2015	1,292

Business_Segments_Tables

Business Segments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segments Summary of Revenue	Revenue derived from our Content & Media and Marketplaces service offerings is as follows (in thousands):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Content & Media	$	22,525	$	38,326
	Marketplaces		10,685		6,730
	Total revenue	$	33,210	$	45,056
Summary of Revenue by Geographic Region
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Domestic	$	28,768	$	40,495
	International		4,442		4,561
	Total revenue	$	33,210	$	45,056

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Financial Assets and Liabilities Carried at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	Financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in thousands):
		Balance at March 31, 2015
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Cash equivalents (1)	$	5,002	$	—	$	—	$	5,002
	Promissory note		—		—		5,053		5,053
		$	5,002	$	—	$	5,053	$	10,055
		Balance at December 31, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Assets:
	Cash equivalents (1)	$	5,000	$	—	$	—	$	5,000
	Promissory note		—		—		4,946		4,946
		$	5,000	$	—	$	4,946	$	9,946
	(1) Comprises money market funds which are included in Cash and cash equivalents in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet.

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Share_Tabl

Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings per Share	The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net loss per share of common stock (in thousands, except per share data):
		Three months ended  March 31,
		2015		2014
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	-6,749	$	-8,946
	Net loss from discontinued operations		—		-2,010
	Net loss	$	-6,749	$	-10,956
	Weighted average common shares outstanding		19,773		18,175
	Weighted average unvested restricted stock awards		—		-4
	Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic and diluted		19,773		18,171
	Earnings per share—basic and diluted
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	-0.34	$	-0.49
	Net loss from discontinued operations		—		-0.11
	Net loss per share	$	-0.34	$	-0.6

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operation Activities in the Statement of Operations
		Three months ended
		March 31, 2014
	Service revenue	$	44,696
	Operating expenses:
	Service costs		38,469
	Sales and marketing		2,800
	Product and development		4,049
	General and administrative		5,866
	Amortization of intangible assets		1,691
	Total operating expenses		52,875
	Operating loss		-8,179
	Other income, net		6,192
	Loss before income taxes		-1,987
	Income tax expense		-23
	Net loss	$	-2,010

Company_Background_and_Overvie1

Company Background and Overview - Additional Information (Details)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Aug. 01, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015
		segment
Company Background And Overview [Line Items]
Number of service offerings		2
Reverse stock split of common stock and treasury stock	0.2
Stockholders equity, reverse stock split description	1-for-5 reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock
Number of marketplace		2
Common Stock
Company Background And Overview [Line Items]
Stockholders equity, reverse stock split description	1-for-5 reverse stock split

Basis_of_Presentations_and_Sum

Basis of Presentations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		1 Months Ended
	Aug. 01, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Feb. 28, 2015
		item
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Reverse stock split of common stock and treasury stock	0.2
Reclassification from other comprehensive income of unrealized gains on marketable securities			$900,000
Recognized realized gains			1,400,000
Cash received from disposal of business, net of cash disposed		3,831,000
Amortization of intangible assets		18,100,000
Number of reporting units		2
Expected dividend rate		0.00%
Percent likelihood of largest tax benefit being realized upon settlement		50.00%
Media content
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Intangibles, useful life		5 years
Minimum | Computer Equipment
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		2 years
Minimum | Software
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		2 years
Minimum | Furniture and Fixtures
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		7 years
Minimum | Leasehold Improvements
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		1 year
Maximum | Computer Equipment
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		5 years
Maximum | Software
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		3 years
Maximum | Furniture and Fixtures
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		10 years
Maximum | Leasehold Improvements
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life		10 years
Pluck Social Media
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cash received from disposal of business, net of cash disposed				3,800,000
Gain from disposal of business				$2,900,000

Property_and_Equipment_Schedul

Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$80,131	$88,246
Less accumulated depreciation	-60,038	-65,410
Property and equipment, net	20,093	22,836
Computer Equipment
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	27,598	28,776
Purchased and Internally Developed Software
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	42,902	48,875
Furniture and Fixtures
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	1,996	3,004
Leasehold Improvements
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	$7,635	$7,591

Property_and_Equipment_Additio

Property and Equipment - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]
Accelerated depreciation expense	$0.30	$0.90

Property_and_Equipment_Schedul1

Property and Equipment - Schedule of Depreciation Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	$2,839	$5,776
Service Costs
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	1,497	1,854
Sales and Marketing
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	20	38
Product Development
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	57	129
General and Administrative
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation	1,265	1,331
Discontinued Operations
Property Plant And Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation		$2,424

Intangible_Assets_Components_D

Intangible Assets - Components (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	$139,135	$165,296
Accumulated amortization	-103,329	-124,761
Net	35,806	40,535
Customer Relationships
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	7,477	9,569
Accumulated amortization	-6,715	-8,730
Net	762	839
Artist Relationships
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	11,719	11,719
Accumulated amortization	-5,735	-4,796
Net	5,984	6,923
Media content
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	102,905	103,415
Accumulated amortization	-82,499	-80,249
Net	20,406	23,166
Intangibles, useful life	5 years
Technology
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	6,240	27,770
Accumulated amortization	-2,501	-23,293
Net	3,739	4,477
Non-compete agreements
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	253	253
Accumulated amortization	-166	-146
Net	87	107
Trade Names
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	8,449	10,478
Accumulated amortization	-3,621	-5,467
Net	4,828	5,011
Content Publisher Relationships
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross carrying amount	2,092	2,092
Accumulated amortization	-2,092	-2,080
Net		$12

Intangible_Assets_Additional_I

Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$18.10
Service Costs
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$0.10	$1.50

Intangible_Assets_Amortization

Intangible Assets - Amortization Expense by Classification (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$4,711	$11,629
Service Costs
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	2,835	6,212
Sales and Marketing
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	1,016	2,152
Product Development
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	701	1,186
General and Administrative
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	159	388
Discontinued Operations
Finite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets		$1,691

Other_Assets_Other_Assets_Deta

Other Assets - Other Assets (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Assets [Line Items]
Other assets	$5,922	$6,055
Long Term Portion Of Promissory Note
Other Assets [Line Items]
Other assets	4,601	4,505
Other
Other Assets [Line Items]
Other assets	$1,321	$1,550

Other_Balance_Sheet_Items_Accr

Other Balance Sheet Items - Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables And Accruals [Abstract]
Accrued payroll and related items	$3,640	$4,291
Acquisition holdback	9,029	8,958
Commission payable	979	1,183
Other	7,750	9,793
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	$21,398	$24,225

Debt_Additional_Information_De

Debt - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Aug. 29, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, fee amount		1.9
Amortized deferred debt issuance costs	0.1
Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, unused capacity, commitment fee percentage		0.20%
Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, unused capacity, commitment fee percentage		0.40%
Loans based on LIBOR | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit agreement, marginal interest rate		2.00%
Loans based on LIBOR | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit agreement, marginal interest rate		3.00%
Loans based on base rate | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit agreement, marginal interest rate		1.00%
Loans based on base rate | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit agreement, marginal interest rate		2.00%
Term Loan Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity		100
Revolving Loan Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity		125

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies - Leases (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Leases [Abstract]
Date of lease expiration ending period	2020-02

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense (benefit)	$22,000	$2,445,000
Income tax benefit movement	2,400,000
Unrecognized tax position as a result of a business acquisition			$100,000

Employee_Benefit_Plan_Addition

Employee Benefit Plan - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Percent eligible pre-tax compensation that an eligible employee may defer	90.00%
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized	$0.30	$0.60
Defined contribution plan, cost recognized remainder of fiscal year	$0.90

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_2

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards - Stock-based Compensation Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation included in net loss	$2,235	$5,267
Service Costs
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation included in net loss	314	289
Sales and Marketing
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation included in net loss	181	153
Product Development
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation included in net loss	469	685
General and Administrative
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation included in net loss	1,271	2,637
Discontinued Operations
Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation included in net loss		$1,503

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_3

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards - Stock-based Compensation Expense - Additional Information (Details)	0 Months Ended
	Aug. 01, 2014
Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract]
Reverse stock split of common stock and treasury stock	0.2

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_4

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards - Stock Options Activity (Details)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015
Number of options outstanding
Outstanding beginning balance	3,473
Options granted	404
Options exercised	-7
Options forfeited or canceled	-375
Outstanding ending balance	3,495

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_5

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards - Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Details) (Restricted stock units (RSUs))	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015
Restricted stock units (RSUs)
Restricted stock unit, Shares
Unvested beginning balance	857
Granted	630
Vested	-93
Forfeited	-102
Unvested ending balance	1,292

Stockbased_Compensation_Plans_6

Stock-based Compensation Plans and Awards - Employee Stock Purchase Plan - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	31-May-11
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense	$2,235,000	$5,267,000
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items]
Participants maximum payroll deductions percentage			15.00%
Duration of each offering period	24 months
Number of purchase periods in each offering period	4
Maximum number of common stock shares may be purchased by each participant	750
Duration of each interval in each purchase period within an offering	6 months
Fair value assumptions, expected life	24 months
Fair value assumptions, expected volatility, minimum	58.00%
Fair value assumptions, expected volatility, maximum	60.00%
Stock-based compensation expense	100,000
Number of common stock shares remaining authorized for issuance	1.8
Unrecognized stock based compensation	$400,000

Stockholders_Equity_Additional

Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Aug. 01, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2012
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stockholders equity, reverse stock split description	1-for-5 reverse stock split with respect to all of our outstanding shares of common stock
Reverse stock split of common stock and treasury stock	0.2
Authorized amount to repurchase			$50
Stock repurchase remaining authorized amount		$19.20
Repurchases unsettled, Shares		0
Equity instrument voting rights per share		$1
Common Stock
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Stockholders equity, reverse stock split description	1-for-5 reverse stock split

Business_Segments_Additional_I

Business Segments - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
	segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of operating segments	1

Business_Segments_Details

Business Segments (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Entity Wide Information Revenue From External Customer [Line Items]
Total revenue	$33,210	$45,056
Content And Media
Entity Wide Information Revenue From External Customer [Line Items]
Total revenue	22,525	38,326
Marketplaces
Entity Wide Information Revenue From External Customer [Line Items]
Total revenue	$10,685	$6,730

Business_Segments_Summary_of_R

Business Segments - Summary of Revenue by Geographic Region (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Revenues From External Customers And Long Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total revenue	$33,210	$45,056
Domestic
Revenues From External Customers And Long Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total revenue	28,768	40,495
International
Revenues From External Customers And Long Lived Assets [Line Items]
Total revenue	$4,442	$4,561

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Fair Value, Financial Assets, Recurring (Details) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring, USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	$5,002,000
Promissory note	5,053,000	4,946,000
Total assets at fair value	10,055,000	9,946,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash equivalents	5,002,000
Total assets at fair value	5,002,000	5,000,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Promissory note	5,053,000	4,946,000
Total assets at fair value	5,053,000	4,946,000
Level 3 additions	100,000
Money Market Funds
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash equivalents		5,000,000
Money Market Funds | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Cash equivalents		$5,000,000

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Share_Comp

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Computation Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net loss from continuing operations	($6,749)	($8,946)
Net loss from discontinued operations		-2,010
Net income (loss)	($6,749)	($10,956)
Weighted average common shares outstanding	19,773	18,175
Weighted average unvested restricted stock awards		-4
Weighted average number of shares - basic and diluted	19,773	18,171
Earnings per share - basic and diluted
Net loss from continuing operations	($0.34)	($0.49)
Net loss from discontinued operations		($0.11)
Net income (loss)	($0.34)	($0.60)

Net_Income_Loss_Per_Share_Addi

Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Antidilutive common stock equivalent shares excluded from calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share (in shares)	0.1	0.1

Discontinued_Operation_Income_

Discontinued Operation - Income Statements Activities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014
Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Service revenue	$44,696
Operating expenses:
Service costs	38,469
Sales and marketing	2,800
Product and development	4,049
General and administrative	5,866
Amortization of intangible assets	1,691
Total operating expenses	52,875
Operating income (loss)	-8,179
Other income (expense), net	6,192
Loss before income taxes	-1,987
Income tax benefit (expense)	-23
Net income (loss)	($2,010)