Autodesk (ADSK) 10-Q 5 Dec 14 2015 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Dec. 02, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Period End Date	31-Oct-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2015	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Trading Symbol	'ADSK	'
Entity Registrant Name	'AUTODESK INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000769397	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--01-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	227,520,504

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Net revenue:	'	'	'	'
License and other	$320.50	$297.50	$987.10	$934.20
Subscription	297.5	257.7	860.5	753.1
Total net revenue	618	555.2	1,847.60	1,687.30
Cost of revenue:	'	'	'	'
Cost of license and other revenue	51.9	43.4	154.6	130.6
Cost of subscription revenue	34.1	23.7	98	71.8
Total cost of revenue	86	67.1	252.6	202.4
Gross profit	532	488.1	1,595	1,484.90
Operating expenses:	'	'	'	'
Marketing and sales	245.1	203.4	708.1	610.3
Research and development	183.9	149	533.7	448.7
General and administrative	78.9	55.8	212.9	158.8
Amortization of purchased intangibles	9.5	7.4	30.5	27.5
Restructuring charges, net	0	4.4	3.1	6.5
Total operating expenses	517.4	420	1,488.30	1,251.80
Income from operations	14.6	68.1	106.7	233.1
Interest and other (expense) income, net	-3	1.1	-16.6	-9.5
Income before income taxes	11.6	69.2	90.1	223.6
Provision for income taxes	-0.9	-11.6	-19.8	-48.7
Net income	$10.70	$57.60	$70.30	$174.90
Basic net income per share (in usd per share)	$0.05	$0.26	$0.31	$0.78
Diluted net income per share (in usd per share)	$0.05	$0.25	$0.30	$0.77
Weighted average shares used in computing basic net income per share	226.9	223.1	227.1	223.4
Weighted average shares used in computing diluted net income per share	231.5	227.7	231.9	228.6

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$10.70	$57.60	$70.30	$174.90
Other comprehensive income, net of reclassifications:	'	'	'	'
Net gain (loss) on derivative instruments (net of tax effect of $0.5, $0.3, ($0.6) and $0.5)	21.1	-6.5	19.6	-1.6
Change in net unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities (net of tax effect of $0.7, ($0.2), $0.7 and ($0.2))	-0.5	0.6	-2.1	-0.3
Net change in cumulative foreign currency translation (loss) gain (net of tax effect of $3.4, ($1.0), $2.9 and $1.0)	-24.2	9.3	-18.2	3.5
Total other comprehensive (loss) gain	-3.6	3.4	-0.7	1.6
Total comprehensive income	$7.10	$61	$69.60	$176.50

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME2

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net gain (loss) on derivative instruments - tax effect	$0.50	$0.30	($0.60)	$0.50
Change in net unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities, tax effect	0.7	-0.2	0.7	-0.2
Net change in cumulative foreign currency translation (loss) gain, tax effect	$3.40	($1)	$2.90	$1

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,345	$1,853
Marketable securities	556.4	414.1
Accounts receivable, net	375.7	423.7
Deferred income taxes, net	80.7	56.8
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	100.9	87.4
Total current assets	2,458.70	2,835
Marketable securities	255.5	277.3
Computer equipment, software, furniture and leasehold improvements, net	160.4	130.3
Developed technologies, net	97.2	63.1
Goodwill	1,474.10	1,009.90
Deferred income taxes, net	97.7	131.1
Other assets	193.2	148.3
Total assets	4,736.80	4,595
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	99.1	84.5
Accrued compensation	195.3	181.2
Accrued income taxes	38.3	24.3
Deferred revenue	775.1	696.2
Other accrued liabilities	85.5	85.3
Total current liabilities	1,193.30	1,071.50
Deferred revenue	231.1	204.4
Long term income taxes payable	182	211.8
Long term notes payable, net of discount	747	746.4
Other liabilities	114.9	99.4
Stockholders’ equity:	'	'
Preferred stock	0	0
Common stock and additional paid-in capital	1,731.20	1,637.30
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)	-1.3	-0.6
Retained earnings	538.6	624.8
Total stockholders’ equity	2,268.50	2,261.50
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$4,736.80	$4,595

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME3

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Operating activities:	'	'
Net income	$70.30	$174.90
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation, amortization and accretion	109.9	95.7
Stock-based compensation expense	116.5	96.1
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	0.8
Restructuring charges, net	3.1	6.5
Other operating activities	9.5	-3.1
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of business combinations	141.6	9.1
Net cash provided by operating activities	450.9	380
Investing activities:	'	'
Purchases of marketable securities	-899	-969.8
Sales of marketable securities	160.7	329.9
Maturities of marketable securities	623.2	395.1
Capital expenditures	-60	-55
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-603.8	-68
Other investing activities	1.2	-15.7
Net cash used in investing activities	-777.7	-383.5
Financing activities:	'	'
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net of issuance costs	129.6	183.4
Repurchase and retirement of common shares	-307.6	-318.7
Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation	0	-0.8
Other financing activities	-1.7	0
Net cash used in financing activities	-179.7	-136.1
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-1.5	0.8
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-508	-138.8
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of fiscal year	1,853	1,612.20
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$1,345	$1,473.40

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Autodesk, Inc. (“Autodesk,” “we,” “us,” “our,” or the “Company”) as of October 31, 2014, and for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information along with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for annual financial statements. In management’s opinion, Autodesk made all adjustments (consisting of normal, recurring and non-recurring adjustments) during the quarter that were considered necessary for the fair presentation of the financial position and operating results of the Company. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In addition, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year ending January 31, 2015, or for any other period. These unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes, together with management’s discussion and analysis of financial position and results of operations contained in Autodesk’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014, filed on March 10, 2014.
	Reclassifications
	During the second quarter of fiscal 2015, Autodesk elected to present amortization of purchased customer relationships, trade names, patents, and user lists as a separate line item within operating expenses. As a result, amortization previously reflected in “General and Administrative” expense was reclassified to “Amortization of Purchased Intangibles" within Operating Expenses. These expenses have been reclassified in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013 to conform to the current period presentation as follows:
		Nine Months Ended			Three Months Ended			Nine Months Ended
		October 31, 2014			October 31, 2013			October 31, 2013
	Reclassifications within operating expenses:
	(Decrease) to general and administrative	$	(10.9	)	$	(7.4	)	$	(27.5	)
	Increase to amortization of purchased intangibles	10.9			7.4			27.5

Recently_Issued_Accounting_Sta

Recently Issued Accounting Standards	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]	'
Recently Issued Accounting Standards	'
	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	With the exception of those discussed below, there have been no recent changes in accounting pronouncements issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or adopted by the Company during the nine months ended October 31, 2014, that are of significance, or potential significance, to the Company.
	Accounting Standards Adopted in the Nine Months Ended October 31, 2014
	Effective February 1, 2014, Autodesk prospectively adopted FASB's Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-11 regarding ASC Topic 740 “Income Tax.” This ASU clarifies the guidance on the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. The adoption of this ASU impacted the presentation of tax assets and liabilities on the statement of financial position, but did not impact its results of operations or cash flows.
	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 regarding ASC Topic 606 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” This ASU provides principles for recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU will be effective for Autodesk’s fiscal year beginning February 1, 2017. Early adoption is not permitted. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption.

Concentration_of_Credit_Risk

Concentration of Credit Risk	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]	'
Concentration of Credit Risk	'
	Concentration of Credit Risk
	Autodesk places its cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities in highly liquid instruments with, and in the custody of, diversified financial institutions globally with high credit ratings and limits the amounts invested with any one institution, type of security and issuer. Autodesk’s primary commercial banking relationship is with Citigroup Inc. and its global affiliates. Citibank, N.A., an affiliate of Citigroup, is one of the lead lenders and an agent in the syndicate of Autodesk’s $400.0 million line of credit facility. It is Autodesk’s policy to limit the amounts invested with any one institution by type of security and issuer.
	Total sales to the distributor Tech Data Corporation, and its global affiliates (“Tech Data”), accounted for 26% of Autodesk’s total net revenue for both the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, and 24% and 25% of Autodesk’s total net revenue for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, respectively. The majority of the net revenue from sales to Tech Data relates to Autodesk’s Platform Solutions and Emerging Business (“PSEB”) segment and is for sales made outside of the United States. In addition, Tech Data accounted for 22% and 24% of trade accounts receivable at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.

Financial_Instruments

Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Financial Instruments	'
	Financial Instruments
	The following tables summarize the Company's financial instruments' amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses, and fair value by significant investment category as of October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014:
				October 31, 2014
				Amortized Cost				Gross unrealized gains				Gross unrealized losses				Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Cash equivalents (1):
		Certificates of deposit and time deposits		$	328.1			$	—			$	—			$	328.1	$	165.1	$	163	$	—
		Agency discount note		57.3				—				—				57.3		57.3		—		—
		Commercial paper and corporate bonds		216.8				—				—				216.8		16.3		200.5		—
		Money market funds		65.3				—				—				65.3		—		65.3		—
		Other (2)		7				—				—				7		2		5		—
	Marketable securities:
		Short-term available for sale
			Commercial paper and certificates of deposit	242.5				—				—				242.5		6.2		236.3		—
			Time deposits	132.3				—				—				132.3		—		132.3		—
			Corporate debt securities	99.6				—				—				99.6		99.6		—		—
			Municipal securities	22.3				0.1				—				22.4		22.4		—		—
			Treasury bill	6				—				—				6		6		—		—
			Other (3)	9.5				—				—				9.5		9.5		—		—
		Short-term trading securities
			Mutual funds	38.7				5.4				—				44.1		44.1		—		—
		Long-term available for sale
			Corporate debt securities	186.4				0.4				(0.2		)		186.6		186.6		—		—
			Agency bond	40.7				0.1				—				40.8		40.8		—		—
			U.S. government agency securities	10				—				—				10		10		—		—
			Municipal securities	18				0.1				—				18.1		18.1		—		—
	Convertible debt securities (4)			16.5				4.8				(8.1		)		13.2		—		—		13.2
	Derivative contracts (5)			6.2				21.4				(7.2		)		20.4		—		16.7		3.7
			Total	$	1,503.20			$	32.3			$	(15.5	)		$	1,520.00	$	684	$	819.1	$	16.9
	____________________
	-1	Included in “Cash and cash equivalents” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-2	Consists of international government bonds and municipal securities.
	-3	Consists of U.S. government agency securities, agency discount notes, and other short-term securities.
	-4	Considered “available for sale” and included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-5	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Other assets,” or “Other accrued liabilities” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
				January 31, 2014
				Amortized Cost				Gross unrealized gains				Gross unrealized losses				Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Cash equivalents (1):
		Certificates of deposit and time deposits		$	280.7			$	—			$	—			$	280.7	$	30.4	$	250.3	$	—
		Commercial paper		280.5				—				—				280.5		—		280.5		—
		Municipal securities		2				—				—				2		2		—		—
		Money market funds		262.8				—				—				262.8		—		262.8		—
	Marketable securities:
		Short-term available for sale
			Commercial paper and corporate debt securities	261				—				—				261		95.4		165.6		—
			Time deposits	37.1				—				—				37.1		—		37.1		—
			Agency bond	42.7				—				—				42.7		42.7		—		—
			U.S. government agency securities	11.3				—				—				11.3		11.3		—		—
			Municipal securities	11.7				—				—				11.7		11.7		—		—
			Other (2)	11.4				—				—				11.4		11.4		—		—
		Short-term trading securities
			Mutual funds	35.6				3.3				—				38.9		38.9		—		—
		Long-term available for sale
			Corporate debt securities	179.7				0.7				(0.1		)		180.3		180.3		—		—
			Agency bond	43.3				0.1				—				43.4		43.4		—		—
			U.S. government agency securities	9.8				—				—				9.8		9.8		—		—
			Municipal securities	43.5				0.3				—				43.8		43.8		—		—
	Convertible debt securities (3)			21.4				3.2				(4.4		)		20.2		—		—		20.2
	Derivative contracts (4)			10.8				14.8				(6.0		)		19.6		—		10.5		9.1
			Total	$	1,545.30			$	22.4			$	(10.5	)		$	1,557.20	$	521.1	$	1,006.80	$	29.3
	____________________
	-1	Included in “Cash and cash equivalents” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-2	Consists of agency discount notes, U.S. treasury bills, and other short-term securities.
	-3	Considered “available for sale” and included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
-4	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Other assets,” or “Other accrued liabilities” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Autodesk classifies its marketable securities as either short-term or long-term based on each instrument’s underlying contractual maturity date. Marketable securities with remaining maturities of less than 12 months are classified as short-term and marketable securities with remaining maturities greater than 12 months are classified as long-term. Autodesk may sell certain of its marketable securities prior to their stated maturities for strategic purposes or in anticipation of credit deterioration.
Autodesk applies fair value accounting for certain financial assets and liabilities, which consist of cash equivalents, marketable securities and other financial instruments, on a recurring basis. The Company defines fair value as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is estimated by applying the following hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value into three levels and bases the categorization within the hierarchy upon the lowest level of input that is available and significant to the fair value measurement: (Level 1) observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; (Level 2) inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities; and (Level 3) unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data, which require Autodesk to develop its own assumptions. When determining fair value, Autodesk uses observable market data and relies on unobservable inputs only when observable market data is not available. There have been no transfers between fair value measurement levels during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014.
Autodesk's cash equivalents, marketable securities and financial instruments are primarily classified within Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Autodesk values its available for sale securities on pricing from pricing vendors, who may use quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable either directly or indirectly in determining fair value (Level 2). Autodesk's Level 2 securities are valued primarily using observable inputs other than quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities. Autodesk's Level 3 securities consist of investments held in convertible debt securities and derivative contracts which are valued using probability weighted discounted cash flow models as some of the inputs to the models are unobservable in the market.
A reconciliation of the change in Autodesk’s Level 3 items for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 was as follows:
	Fair Value Measurements Using
	Significant Unobservable Inputs
	(Level 3)
		Derivative Contracts				Convertible Debt Securities				Total
Balance at January 31, 2014		$	9.1			$	20.2			$	29.3
Purchases		0.1				0.4				0.5
Settlements		(1.1		)		(3.3		)		(4.4		)
Net realized (losses)		(3.0		)		(2.2		)		(5.2		)
Net unrealized (losses)		(1.4		)		(1.9		)		(3.3		)
Balance at October 31, 2014		$	3.7			$	13.2			$	16.9
The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of Autodesk's “available-for-sale securities” classified by the contractual maturity date of the security:
	October 31, 2014
	Cost				Fair Value
Due within 1 year	$	512.2			$	512.3
Due in 1 year through 5 years	271.6				268.7
Total	$	783.8			$	781
As of October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, Autodesk did not have any securities in a continuous unrealized loss position for greater than twelve months.
Autodesk also has direct investments in privately held companies accounted for under the cost method, which are periodically assessed for other-than-temporary impairment. If Autodesk determines that an other-than-temporary impairment has occurred, Autodesk writes down the investment to its fair value. Autodesk estimates fair value of its cost method investments considering available information such as pricing in recent rounds of financing, current cash positions, earnings and cash flow forecasts, recent operational performance and any other readily available market data. During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk recorded $3.4 million in other-than-temporary impairments on its privately held equity investments. During the nine months ended October 31, 2013, Autodesk recorded no other-than-temporary impairments on its privately held equity investments.
The sales or redemptions of “available-for-sale securities” during the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 resulted in a gain of $0.7 million and a loss of $0.2 million, respectively. Gains and losses resulting from the sale or redemption of "available-for-sale securities" are recorded in “Interest and other (expense) income, net” on the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Proceeds from the sale and maturity of marketable securities for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 were $783.9 million and $725.0 million, respectively.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Under its risk management strategy, Autodesk uses derivative instruments to manage its short-term exposures to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates which exist as part of ongoing business operations. Autodesk's general practice is to hedge a portion of transaction exposures denominated in euros, Japanese yen, Swiss francs, British pounds, Canadian dollars and Australian dollars. These instruments have maturities between one to twelve months in the future. Autodesk does not enter into derivative instrument transactions for trading or speculative purposes.
The bank counterparties to the derivative contracts potentially expose Autodesk to credit-related losses in the event of their nonperformance. However, to mitigate that risk, Autodesk only contracts with counterparties who meet the Company's minimum requirements under its counterparty risk assessment process. Autodesk monitors ratings, credit spreads and potential downgrades on at least a quarterly basis. Based on Autodesk's on-going assessment of counterparty risk, the Company will adjust its exposure to various counterparties. Autodesk generally enters into master netting arrangements, which reduce credit risk by permitting net settlement of transactions with the same counterparty.  However, Autodesk does not have any master netting arrangements in place with collateral features.
Foreign currency contracts designated as cash flow hedges
Autodesk uses foreign currency contracts to reduce the exchange rate impact on a portion of the net revenue or operating expense of certain anticipated transactions. These contracts are designated and documented as cash flow hedges. The effectiveness of the cash flow hedge contracts is assessed quarterly using regression analysis as well as other timing and probability criteria. To receive cash flow hedge accounting treatment, all hedging relationships are formally documented at the inception of the hedge and the hedges are expected to be highly effective in offsetting changes to future cash flows on hedged transactions. The gross gains and losses on these hedges are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)” and are reclassified into earnings at the time the forecasted revenue or expense is recognized. In the event the underlying forecasted transaction does not occur, or it becomes probable that it will not occur, Autodesk reclassifies the gain or loss on the related cash flow hedge from “Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)” to “Interest and other (expense) income, net” in the Company's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements at that time.
The net notional amounts of these contracts are presented net settled and were $401.0 million at October 31, 2014 and $351.7 million at January 31, 2014. Outstanding contracts are recognized as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet at fair value. The majority of the net gain of $23.1 million remaining in “Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)” as of October 31, 2014 is expected to be recognized into earnings within the next twelve months.
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
Autodesk uses foreign currency contracts which are not designated as hedging instruments to reduce the exchange rate risk associated primarily with foreign currency denominated receivables and payables. These forward contracts are marked-to-market at the end of each fiscal quarter with gains and losses recognized as “Interest and other (expense) income, net.” These derivative instruments do not subject the Company to material balance sheet risk due to exchange rate movements because gains and losses on these derivative instruments are intended to offset the gains or losses resulting from the settlement of the underlying foreign currency denominated receivables and payables. The net notional amounts of these foreign currency contracts are presented net settled and were $24.5 million at October 31, 2014 and $205.5 million at January 31, 2014.
From time to time and consistent with its risk management practices, Autodesk also uses derivative instruments to hedge its economic exposure related to committed, in-process acquisitions priced in foreign currency.  Such derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting and are marked-to-market through earnings, with any gain or loss reflected immediately in “Interest and other (expense) income, net,” in each period.
In addition to these foreign currency contracts, Autodesk holds derivative instruments issued by privately held companies, which are not designated as hedging instruments. These derivatives consist of certain conversion options on the convertible debt securities held by Autodesk and an option to acquire a privately held company. These derivatives are recorded at fair value as of each balance sheet date and are recorded in “Other assets.” Changes in the fair values of these instruments are recognized in income as “Interest and other (expense) income, net.”
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
The fair values of derivative instruments in Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows as of October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014:
	Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value at
			October 31, 2014				January 31, 2014
Derivative Assets
Foreign currency contracts designated as cash flow hedges	Prepaid expenses and other current assets (1)		$	19.7			$	4.4
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	Prepaid expenses and other current assets and Other assets		3.7				16.9
Total derivative assets			$	23.4			$	21.3
Derivative Liabilities
Foreign currency contracts designated as cash flow hedges	Other accrued liabilities (2)		$	3			$	1.7
Total derivative liabilities			$	3			$	1.7
____________________
-1	Considering Autodesk's master netting arrangements, these contracts are presented net settled. The gross balance is $20.3 million and $5.9 million at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.
-2	Considering Autodesk's master netting arrangements, these contracts are presented net settled. The gross balance is $3.6 million and $3.2 million at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.
The effects of derivatives designated as hedging instruments on Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (amounts presented include any income tax effects):
	Foreign Currency
	Contracts
	Three Months Ended October 31,								Nine Months Ended October 31,
	2014				2013				2014				2013
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income on derivatives (effective portion)	$	22.3			$	(4.6	)		$	22.5			$	8
Amount and location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income (effective portion)
Net revenue	$	2.1			$	2.3			$	4.6			$	11
Operating expenses	(0.8		)		(0.3		)		(1.7		)		(1.3		)
Total	$	1.3			$	2			$	2.9			$	9.7
Amount and location of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)
Interest and other (expense) income, net	$	0.1			$	(0.1	)		$	0.3			$	(0.1	)
The effects of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (amounts presented include any income tax effects):
	Three Months Ended October 31,								Nine Months Ended October 31,
	2014				2013				2014				2013
Amount and location of (loss) gain recognized in income on derivatives
Interest and other (expense) income, net	$	(4.5	)		$	2.9			$	(14.8	)		$	4.9

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens

Stock-based Compensation Expense	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense	'
	Stock-based Compensation Expense
	Stock Plans
	As of October 31, 2014, Autodesk maintained two active stock plans for the purpose of granting equity awards to employees and to non-employee members of Autodesk’s Board of Directors: the 2012 Employee Stock Plan (“2012 Employee Plan”), which is available only to employees, and the Autodesk 2012 Outside Directors’ Plan (“2012 Directors' Plan”), which is available only to non-employee directors. Additionally, there are seven expired or terminated plans with options outstanding. The exercise price of all stock options granted under these plans was equal to the fair market value of the stock on the grant date.
	The 2012 Employee Plan was approved by Autodesk's stockholders and became effective on January 6, 2012. On January 14, 2014, Autodesk's stockholders approved amendments to the 2012 Employee Plan, which increased the number of shares reserved for issuance under the plan by 11.4 million shares and added additional performance goals to the plan. The 2012 Employee Plan replaced the 2008 Employee Stock Plan, as amended ("2008 Plan"), and no further equity awards may be granted under the 2008 Plan. The 2012 Employee Plan reserves up to 32.6 million shares which includes 26.6 million shares reserved under the 2012 Employee Plan, as well as up to 6.0 million shares forfeited under certain prior employee stock plans during the life of the 2012 Employee Plan. The 2012 Employee Plan permits the grant of stock options, restricted stock units and restricted stock awards. Each restricted stock unit or restricted stock award granted will be counted against the shares authorized for issuance under the 2012 Employee Plan as 1.79 shares. If a granted option, restricted stock unit or restricted stock award expires or becomes unexercisable for any reason, the unpurchased or forfeited shares that were granted may be returned to the 2012 Employee Plan and may become available for future grant under the 2012 Employee Plan. As of October 31, 2014, 20.5 million shares subject to options or restricted stock unit awards have been granted under the 2012 Employee Plan. Options and restricted stock units that were granted under the 2012 Employee Plan vest over periods ranging from immediately upon grant to over a three-year period and options expire 10 years from the date of grant. The 2012 Employee Plan will expire on June 30, 2022. At October 31, 2014, 13.9 million shares were available for future issuance under the 2012 Employee Plan.
	The 2012 Outside Directors' Plan ("2012 Directors' Plan") was approved by Autodesk's stockholders and became effective on January 6, 2012. The 2012 Directors' Plan replaced the 2010 Outside Directors' Stock Plan, as amended. The 2012 Directors' Plan permits the grant of stock options, restricted stock units and restricted stock awards to non-employee members of Autodesk’s Board of Directors. Each restricted stock unit or restricted stock award granted will be counted against the shares authorized for issuance under the 2012 Directors' Plan as 2.11 shares. As of October 31, 2014, 0.6 million shares subject to restricted stock units have been granted under the 2012 Directors' Plan. Restricted stock units that were granted under the 2012 Directors' Plan vest over one to three years from the date of grant. The 2012 Directors' Plan reserved 2.6 million shares of Autodesk common stock. The 2012 Directors' Plan will expire on June 30, 2022. At October 31, 2014, 2.0 million shares were available for future issuance under the 2012 Directors' Plan.
	The following sections summarize activity under Autodesk’s stock plans.
	Stock Options:
	A summary of stock option activity for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Number of			Weighted average exercise price per share				Weighted		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (3)
		Shares							average remaining contractual term
		(in millions)							(in years)		(in millions)
	Options outstanding at January 31, 2014	5.9			$	33.54
	Granted (1)	—			—
	Exercised	(2.7	)		32.87
	Canceled/Forfeited	—			—
	Options outstanding at October 31, 2014	3.2			$	34.12			4.3		$	74.6
	Options vested and exercisable at October 31, 2014	2.9			$	33.44			4		$	69.4
	Options vested as of October 31, 2014 and expected to vest thereafter (2)	3.2			$	34.12			4.3		$	74.6
	Options available for grant at October 31, 2014	15.9
	_______________
	-1	Autodesk did not grant stock options in the nine months ended October 31, 2014.
	-2	Options expected to vest reflect an estimated forfeiture rate.
	-3	Represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value, based on Autodesk’s closing stock price of $57.54 per share as of October 31, 2014, which would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of that date.
	As of October 31, 2014, compensation cost of $1.6 million related to non-vested options is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 0.4 years.
	The following table summarizes information about the pre-tax intrinsic value of options exercised and the weighted average grant date fair value per share of options granted during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013:
		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		October 31, 2014				October 31, 2013				October 31, 2014			October 31, 2013
	Pre-tax intrinsic value of options exercised (1)	$	10.3			$	37.4			$	54.5		$	80.2
	Weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted (2)	$	—			$	—			$	—		$	—
	_______________
	-1	The intrinsic value of options exercised is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the option and the market value of the stock on the date of exercise.
	-2	The weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted is calculated, as of the stock option grant date, using the Black-Scholes Merton ("BSM") option pricing model. For the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Autodesk did not grant stock options.
	The following table summarizes information about options outstanding and exercisable at October 31, 2014:
		Options Vested and Exercisable												Options Outstanding
		Number of			Weighted		Weighted				Aggregate			Number of	Weighted	Weighted		Aggregate
		Shares			average		average				intrinsic			Shares	average	average		intrinsic
		(in millions)			contractual		exercise				value (1)			(in millions)	contractual	exercise		value (1)
					life		price				(in millions)				life	price		(in millions)
					(in years)										(in years)
	Range of per-share exercise prices:
	$2.28 - $29.49	1.1					$	23.74						1.1		$	23.8
	$29.50 - $41.62	1.4					38.39							1.6		38.41
	$42.39 - $43.81	0.4					43.8							0.5		43.79
		2.9			4		$	33.44			$	69.4		3.2	4.3	$	34.12	$	74.6
	_______________
	-1	Represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value, based on Autodesk’s closing stock price of $57.54 per share as of October 31, 2014, which would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of that date.
	These options will expire if not exercised at specific dates ranging through September 2022.
	Restricted Stock Units:
	A summary of restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Unvested			Weighted
		Restricted			average grant
		Stock Units			date fair value
					per share
		(in thousands)
	Unvested restricted stock units at January 31, 2014	6,515.60			$	39.15
	Granted	3,572.00			52.89
	Vested	(2,062.5	)		38.1
	Canceled/Forfeited	(380.7	)		40.53
	Performance Adjustment (1)	(74.7	)		42.23
	Unvested restricted stock units at October 31, 2014	7,569.70			$	45.96
	_______________
	-1	Based on Autodesk's financial results for both the fiscal 2013 and 2014 performance period. The performance stock units were earned at 92.3% and 65.8% of the target award for granted in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014, respectively.
	For the restricted stock units granted during the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, the weighted average grant date fair value was $52.89 and $40.64, respectively. The grant date fair value of the shares vested during the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 was $78.6 million and $49.0 million, respectively.
During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk granted 3.1 million restricted stock units. The restricted stock units vest over periods ranging from immediately upon grant to a pre-determined date that is typically within three years from the date of grant. Restricted stock units are not considered outstanding stock at the time of grant, as the holders of these units are not entitled to any of the rights of a stockholder, including voting rights. The fair value of the restricted stock units is primarily expensed ratably over the vesting period. Autodesk recorded stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock units of $31.2 million and $82.1 million during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, respectively. Autodesk recorded stock-based compensation expense related to restricted stock units of $18.8 million and $52.4 million during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, respectively. As of October 31, 2014, total compensation cost not yet recognized of $236.2 million related to non-vested restricted stock units is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. At October 31, 2014, the number of restricted stock units granted but unvested was 6.7 million.
During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk granted 0.5 million performance restricted stock units (“PSUs”) for which the ultimate number of shares earned is determined based on the achievement of performance criteria at the end of the stated service and performance period. The performance criteria for these grants are based upon billings and subscriptions goals adopted by the Compensation and Human Resource Committee, as well as total stockholder return compared against the S&P Computer Software Select Index (“Relative TSR”). Each PSU covers a three year period:
•	Up to one third of the PSU may vest following year one depending upon the achievement of the billings and subscriptions goals for year one as well as 1 year Relative TSR (covering year one).
•	Up to one third of the PSU may vest following year two depending upon the achievement of the billings and subscriptions goals for year two as well as 2 year Relative TSR (covering years one and two).
•	Up to one third of the PSU may vest following year three depending upon the achievement of the billings and subscriptions goals for year three as well as 3 year Relative TSR (covering years one, two and three).
PSUs are not considered outstanding stock at the time of grant, as the holders of these units are not entitled to any of the rights of a stockholder, including voting rights. Autodesk has determined the grant-date fair value for these awards using a Monte Carlo simulation model since the awards are subject to a market condition. The fair value of the PSUs is expensed using the accelerated attribution over the vesting period. Autodesk recorded stock-based compensation expense related to PSUs of $4.9 million and $12.7 million for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, respectively. Autodesk recorded stock-based compensation expense related to PSUs of $2.1 million and $6.9 million during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, respectively. As of October 31, 2014, total compensation cost not yet recognized of $7.0 million related to non-vested performance restricted stock units, is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.0 year. At October 31, 2014, the number of PSUs granted but not vested was 0.9 million.
1998 Employee Qualified Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”)
Under Autodesk’s ESPP, which was approved by stockholders in 1998, eligible employees may purchase shares of Autodesk’s common stock at their discretion using up to 15% of their eligible compensation subject to certain limitations, at no less than 85% of fair market value as defined in the ESPP. At October 31, 2014, a total of 36.0 million shares were available for future issuance. This amount automatically increases on the first trading day of each fiscal year by an amount equal to the lesser of 10.0 million shares or 2% of the total of (1) outstanding shares plus (2) any shares repurchased by Autodesk during the prior fiscal year. Under the ESPP, the Company issues shares on the first trading day following March 31 and September 30 of each fiscal year. The ESPP expires during fiscal 2018.
Autodesk issued 1.0 million and 2.1 million shares under the ESPP during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, with an average price of $34.19 and $33.91 per share, respectively. During the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, Autodesk issued 1.4 million and 2.9 million shares under the ESPP, at an average price of $22.95 and $22.61 per share, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value of awards granted under the ESPP was $15.44 and $15.14 during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, respectively, calculated as of the award grant date using the BSM option pricing model. The weighted average grant date fair value of awards granted under the ESPP during both the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, calculated as of the award grant date using the BSM option pricing model, was $11.80 per share.
Stock-based Compensation Expense
The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as follows:
	Three Months Ended October 31, 2014				Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
Cost of license and other revenue	$	1.2			$	0.9
Cost of subscription	1.1				0.5
Marketing and sales	19.4				14.5
Research and development	14.7				10.2
General and administrative	6.7				5.5
Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases	43.1				31.6
Tax benefit	(11.7		)		(9.6		)
Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases, net of tax	$	31.4			$	22
	Nine Months Ended October 31, 2014				Nine Months Ended October 31, 2013
Cost of license and other revenue	$	3.2			$	2.7
Cost of subscription	2.9				1.6
Marketing and sales	51				42.5
Research and development	39.3				31.3
General and administrative	20.1				18
Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases	116.5				96.1
Tax benefit	(31.3		)		(27.0		)
Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases, net of tax	$	85.2			$	69.1
Stock-based Compensation Expense Assumptions
Autodesk determines the grant-date fair value of its share-based payment awards using a BSM option pricing model or the quoted stock price on the date of grant, unless the awards are subject to market conditions, in which case Autodesk uses a binomial-lattice model (e.g., Monte Carlo simulation model). The Monte Carlo simulation model utilizes multiple input variables to estimate the probability that market conditions will be achieved. Autodesk uses the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of stock-based awards:
	Three Months Ended October 31, 2014					Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
		Performance Stock Unit (1)		ESPP		Performance Stock Unit (1)		ESPP
Range of expected volatilities		N/A		29 - 30%		N/A		30 - 35%
Range of expected lives (in years)		N/A		0.5 - 2.0		N/A		0.5 - 2.0
Expected dividends		N/A		—%		N/A		—%
Range of risk-free interest rates		N/A		0.0 - 0.6%		N/A		0.1 - 0.4%
	Nine Months Ended October 31, 2014					Nine Months Ended October 31, 2013
		Performance Stock Unit		ESPP		Performance Stock Unit		ESPP
Range of expected volatilities		30%		29 - 33%		34%		27 - 36%
Range of expected lives (in years)		N/A		0.5 - 2.0		N/A		0.5 - 2.0
Expected dividends		—%		—%		—%		—%
Range of risk-free interest rates		0.10%		0.0 - 0.6%		0.10%		0.1 - 0.4%
_______________
-1	Autodesk did not grant PSUs in the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 that were subject to market conditions.
Autodesk estimates expected volatility for stock-based awards based on the average of the following two measures. The first is a measure of historical volatility in the trading market for the Company’s common stock, and the second is the implied volatility of traded forward call options to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock. The expected volatility for PSUs subject to market conditions includes the expected volatility of Autodesk's peer companies within the S&P Computer Software Select Index.
Autodesk estimates the expected life of stock-based awards using both exercise behavior and post-vesting termination behavior as well as consideration of outstanding options.
Autodesk does not currently pay, and does not anticipate paying in the foreseeable future, any cash dividends. Consequently, an expected dividend yield of zero is used in the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation model.
The risk-free interest rate used in the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model and the Monte Carlo simulation model for stock-based awards is the historical yield on U.S. Treasury securities with equivalent remaining lives.
Autodesk recognizes expense only for the stock-based awards that are ultimately expected to vest. Therefore, Autodesk has developed an estimate of the number of awards expected to cancel prior to vesting (“forfeiture rate”). The forfeiture rate is estimated based on historical pre-vest cancellation experience and is applied to all stock-based awards. The Company estimates forfeitures at the time of grant and revises those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.

Income_Tax

Income Tax	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Tax	'
	Income Tax
	Autodesk’s effective tax rate was 8% and 22% during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, respectively, compared to 17% and 22% during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, respectively. Autodesk's effective tax rate decreased 9% during the three months ended October 31, 2014 as compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year primarily due to greater tax rate benefits from foreign earnings, stock-based compensation expense and true-up of prior year U.S. foreign tax credits, partially offset by tax rate detriments from accrual for uncertain tax positions, tax impact of an increase in the forecasted annual rate from the previous quarter and expiration of the federal research and development tax credit provisions. Autodesk's effective tax rate remained flat during the nine months ended October 31, 2014 as compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year primarily due to greater tax rate benefits from foreign earnings and true-up of prior year U.S. foreign tax credits, offset by tax rate detriments from stock-based compensation expense, accrual for uncertain tax positions and expiration of the federal research and development tax credit provision. Excluding the impact of discrete tax items, the effective tax rate for each of the three and nine month periods ended October 31, 2014 was 31%, and was lower than the Federal statutory tax rate of 35% primarily due to foreign income taxed at lower rates partially offset by the impact of non-deductible stock based compensation expense and an accrual for uncertain tax positions.
	As of October 31, 2014, the Company had $236.7 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest, of which approximately $230.6 million represents the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate, if recognized. It is possible that the amount of unrecognized tax benefits will change in the next twelve months; however, an estimate of the range of the possible change cannot be made at this time.
	At October 31, 2014, Autodesk had net deferred tax assets of $178.4 million. Pursuant to the adoption of ASU 2013-11, $51.7 million of unrecognized tax benefits have been presented as a reduction of deferred tax assets at October 31, 2014. The Company believes that it will generate sufficient future taxable income in appropriate tax jurisdictions to realize these assets.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Acquisitions	'
	Acquisitions
	During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk completed the business combinations and technology acquisitions described below. The results of operations for the following acquisitions are included in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations since their respective acquisition dates. Pro forma results of operations have not been presented because the effects of the acquisitions, individually and in the aggregate, were not material to Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
	For acquisitions accounted for as business combinations, Autodesk recorded the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The fair values assigned to the identifiable intangible assets acquired were based on estimates and assumptions determined by management. Autodesk recorded the excess of consideration transferred over the aggregate fair values as goodwill. The goodwill recorded is primarily attributable to synergies expected to arise after the acquisitions.
	On June 27, 2014, Autodesk acquired Shotgun Software, Inc. (“Shotgun”) for total consideration of $54.5 million, of which $51.2 million was cash consideration. Prior to acquiring Shotgun, Autodesk had a convertible debt investment in the company with an acquisition-date fair value of $3.3 million using a market approach to value the investment. Shotgun provides a cloud-based production management solution that enabled digital studios to track, schedule, review and collaborate on projects and images. Shotgun has been integrated into, and the related goodwill was assigned to, Autodesk's Media and Entertainment ("M&E") segment. Goodwill is not expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
	On May 29, 2014, Autodesk acquired all the outstanding shares of Within Technologies Limited ("Within Technologies”) for total cash consideration of $88.0 million. Autodesk used its non-U.S.-based cash for the transaction. Within Technologies is a United Kingdom based developer of design and simulation software for next generation manufacturing processes.  The Within Technologies acquisition is expected to accelerate Autodesk’s development of tools and technologies for advanced manufacturing.  Within Technologies has been integrated into Autodesk’s PSEB reportable segment. The amount of goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes is $78.9 million.
	On February 6, 2014, Autodesk acquired the entire issued and to be issued share capital of Delcam plc (“Delcam”), for $284.6 million. Delcam was previously listed as a public company (LON: DLC) and is a leading supplier of advanced CADCAM and industrial measurement solutions for the manufacturing industry. With this transaction Autodesk gains Delcam’s range of design, manufacturing and inspection software that provide automated CADCAM solutions for a variety of industries, ranging from aerospace to toys and sports equipment. The transaction was structured as a cash offer for all the outstanding shares of Delcam, and Delcam has been integrated into Autodesk's Manufacturing ("MFG") reportable segment. The amount of goodwill that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes is $165.1 million.
	During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk also completed a total of sixteen other business combinations and technology acquisitions for total cash consideration of approximately $207.2 million. These business combinations and technology acquisitions were not material individually or in aggregate to Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.
	The following table summarizes the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed by major class for the business combinations and technology acquisitions completed during the nine months ended October 31, 2014:
		Shotgun			Within Technologies			Delcam			Other
	Developed technologies	$	5.4		$	4.6		$	28.9		$	35.4
	Customer relationships and other non-current intangible assets	7.5			3.6			39.7			9.1
	Trade name	1.6			1.2			16.5			5.8
	Goodwill	43.2			80.6			192.8			159.6
	Deferred revenue (current and non-current)	(0.7		)	—			(10.4		)	(0.2		)
	Deferred tax liability	(2.6		)	(1.7		)	(15.3		)	(1.9		)
	Net tangible assets (liabilities)	0.1			(0.3		)	32.4			(0.6		)
	Total	$	54.5		$	88		$	284.6		$	207.2
	For Shotgun and Delcam and certain other business combinations, the allocation of purchase price consideration to certain assets and liabilities is not yet finalized. Autodesk's estimates and assumptions are subject to change within the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date). The primary areas of the preliminary purchase price allocation that are not yet finalized are amounts for tax assets and liabilities, pending finalization of estimates and assumptions in respect of certain tax aspects of the transaction and residual goodwill.

Other_Intangible_Assets_Net

Other Intangible Assets, Net	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]	'
Other Intangible Assets, Net	'
	Other Intangible Assets, Net
	Other intangible assets that include developed technologies, customer relationships, trade names, patents, user lists and the related accumulated amortization were as follows:
		October 31, 2014			January 31, 2014
	Developed technologies, at cost	$	537.1		$	462.4
	Customer relationships, trade names, patents, and user list, at cost (1)	352.9			268.1
		890			730.5
	Less: Accumulated amortization	(696.2		)	(626.2		)
	Other intangible assets, net	$	193.8		$	104.3
	_______________
	-1	Included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Customer relationships and trade names include the effects of foreign currency translation.

Goodwill

Goodwill	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill	'
	Goodwill
	The change in the carrying amount of goodwill during the nine months ended October 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Platform			Architecture,			Manufacturing			Media and			Total
		Solutions and			Engineering						Entertainment
		Emerging			and
		Business			Construction
	Balances as of January 31, 2014
	Goodwill	$	142.3		$	415.2		$	411.6		$	190		$	1,159.10
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			—			—			(149.2		)	(149.2		)
		142.3			415.2			411.6			40.8			1,009.90
	Delcam	—			—			192.8			—			192.8
	Within Technologies	80.6			—			—			—			80.6
	Shotgun	—			—			—			43.2			43.2
	Addition arising from other acquisitions	110.9			15.5			17.9			15.3			159.6
	Effect of foreign currency translation and purchase accounting adjustments	(3.8		)	(6.2		)	(0.1		)	(1.9		)	(12.0		)
	Balance as of October 31, 2014
	Goodwill	330			424.5			622.2			246.6			1,623.30
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			—			—			(149.2		)	(149.2		)
		$	330		$	424.5		$	622.2		$	97.4		$	1,474.10
	Goodwill consists of the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. Autodesk assigns goodwill to the reportable segment associated with each business combination, and tests goodwill for impairment annually in its fourth fiscal quarter or more often if circumstances indicate a potential impairment. For purposes of the goodwill impairment test, a reporting unit is an operating segment or one level below. Autodesk's operating segments are aligned with the management principles of Autodesk's business.
	When goodwill is assessed for impairment, Accounting Standard Update No. 2011-08, "Testing Goodwill for Impairment" provides Autodesk the option to perform an assessment of qualitative factors of impairment (“optional assessment”) prior to necessitating a two-step quantitative impairment test. Should the optional assessment be used for any given fiscal year, qualitative factors to consider include cost factors; financial performance; legal, regulatory, contractual, political, business, or other factors; entity specific factors; industry and market considerations, macroeconomic conditions, and other relevant events and factors affecting the reporting unit. If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value, then performing the two-step impairment test is unnecessary.
	Therefore, the two-step quantitative impairment test is necessary when either Autodesk does not use the optional assessment or, as a result of the optional assessment, it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is greater than its carrying value. In performing the two-step impairment test, Autodesk uses discounted cash flow models which include assumptions regarding projected cash flows. Variances in these assumptions could have a significant impact on Autodesk's conclusion as to whether goodwill is impaired, or the amount of any impairment charge. Impairment charges, if any, result from instances where the fair values of net assets associated with goodwill are less than their carrying values. As changes in business conditions and assumptions occur, Autodesk may be required to record impairment charges. The process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill is subjective and requires significant judgment at many points during the analysis. The value of Autodesk’s goodwill could also be impacted by future adverse changes such as: (i) declines in Autodesk’s actual financial results, (ii) a sustained decline in Autodesk’s market capitalization, (iii) significant slowdown in the worldwide economy or the industries Autodesk serves, or (iv) changes in Autodesk’s business strategy or internal financial results forecasts.

Deferred_Compensation

Deferred Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Deferred Compensation Arrangements [Abstract]	'
Deferred Compensation	'
	Deferred Compensation
	At October 31, 2014, Autodesk had marketable securities totaling $811.9 million, of which $44.1 million related to investments in debt and equity securities that are held in a rabbi trust under non-qualified deferred compensation plans. The total related deferred compensation liability was $44.1 million at October 31, 2014, of which $4.9 million was classified as current and $39.2 million was classified as non-current liabilities. The value of debt and equity securities held in the rabbi trust at January 31, 2014 was $38.9 million. The total related deferred compensation liability at January 31, 2014 was $38.9 million, of which $1.9 million was classified as current and $37.0 million was classified as non-current liabilities. The securities are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under the current portion of "Marketable Securities". The current and non-current portions of the liability are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under “Accrued compensation” and “Other liabilities,” respectively.

Computer_Equipment_Software_Fu

Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net	'
	Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net
	Computer equipment, software, furniture, leasehold improvements and the related accumulated depreciation were as follows:
		October 31, 2014			January 31, 2014
	Computer software, at cost	$	84.6		$	80.9
	Computer hardware, at cost	185.7			163
	Leasehold improvements, land and buildings, at cost	180			163.7
	Furniture and equipment, at cost	49.6			51.7
		499.9			459.3
	Less: Accumulated depreciation	(339.5		)	(329.0		)
	Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture	$	160.4		$	130.3
	and equipment, net

Borrowing_Arrangements

Borrowing Arrangements	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]	'
Borrowing Arrangements	'
	Borrowing Arrangements
	In December 2012, Autodesk issued $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 1.95% senior notes due December 15, 2017 and $350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.6% senior notes due December 15, 2022, (collectively, the “Senior Notes”). Autodesk received net proceeds of $739.3 million from issuance of the Senior Notes, net of a discount of $4.5 million and issuance costs of $6.1 million. Both the discount and issuance costs are being amortized to interest expense over the respective terms of the Senior Notes using the effective interest method. The proceeds of the Senior Notes are available for general corporate purposes. Autodesk may redeem the Senior Notes at any time, subject to a make whole premium. In addition, upon the occurrence of certain change of control triggering events, Autodesk may be required to repurchase the Senior Notes, at a price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of repurchase. The Senior Notes contain restrictive covenants that limit Autodesk's ability to create certain liens, to enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions and to consolidate or merge with, or convey, transfer or lease all or substantially all of its assets, subject to significant qualifications and exceptions. Based on quoted market prices, the fair value of the Senior Notes was approximately $755.2 million as of October 31, 2014.
	Autodesk’s line of credit facility permits unsecured short-term borrowings of up to $400.0 million, with an option to request an increase in the amount of the credit facility by up to an additional $100.0 million, and is available for working capital or other business needs. This credit agreement contains customary covenants that could restrict the imposition of liens on Autodesk’s assets, and restrict the Company’s ability to incur additional indebtedness or make dispositions of assets if Autodesk fails to maintain the financial covenants. The line of credit is syndicated with various financial institutions, including Citibank, N.A., an affiliate of Citigroup, which is one of the lead lenders and an agent. The credit facility expires in May 2018. At October 31, 2014, Autodesk had no outstanding borrowings on this line of credit.

Restructuring

Restructuring	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Restructuring	'
	Restructuring
	During the third quarter of fiscal 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a world-wide restructuring plan in order to re-balance staffing levels to better align them with the evolving needs of the business. The Company authorized plan included a reduction of approximately 85 positions and the consolidation of four leased facilities, with a total cost of approximately $15.0 million ("Fiscal 2014 Plan"). The Company has substantially paid the one-time termination benefits and facility related liabilities related to the Fiscal 2014 Plan as of October 31, 2014.
	During the three months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk recorded no restructuring charges. During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk recorded restructuring charges of $3.1 million. The following table sets forth the restructuring activities during the nine months ended October 31, 2014:
		Balance at January 31, 2014		Additions		Payments			Adjustments (1)			Balance at October 31, 2014
	Fiscal 2014 Plan
	Employee termination costs	$	3.5	$	2.6	$	(6.0	)	$	(0.1	)	$	—
	Lease termination and asset costs	1.3		0.3		(0.4		)	0.3			1.5
	Total	$	4.8	$	2.9	$	(6.4	)	$	0.2		$	1.5
	Current portion (2)	$	3.8									$	0.7
	Non-current portion (2)	1										0.8
	Total	$	4.8									$	1.5
	____________________
	-1	Adjustments include the impact of foreign currency translation.
	-2	The current and non-current portions of the reserve are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under “Other accrued liabilities” and “Other liabilities,” respectively.

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Commitments and Contingencies
	Guarantees and Indemnifications
	In the normal course of business, Autodesk provides indemnifications of varying scopes, including limited product warranties and indemnification of customers against claims of intellectual property infringement made by third parties arising from the use of its products or services. Autodesk accrues for known indemnification issues if a loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. Historically, costs related to these indemnifications have not been significant, and because potential future costs are highly variable, Autodesk is unable to estimate the maximum potential impact of these indemnifications on its future results of operations.
	In connection with the purchase, sale or license of assets or businesses with third parties, Autodesk has entered into or assumed customary indemnification agreements related to the assets or businesses purchased, sold or licensed. Historically, costs related to these indemnifications have not been significant, and because potential future costs are highly variable, Autodesk is unable to estimate the maximum potential impact of these indemnifications on its future results of operations.
	As permitted under Delaware law, Autodesk has agreements whereby it indemnifies its officers and directors for certain events or occurrences while the officer or director is, or was, serving at Autodesk’s request in such capacity. The maximum potential amount of future payments Autodesk could be required to make under these indemnification agreements is unlimited; however, Autodesk has directors’ and officers’ liability insurance coverage that is intended to reduce its financial exposure and may enable Autodesk to recover a portion of any future amounts paid. Autodesk believes the estimated fair value of these indemnification agreements in excess of applicable insurance coverage is minimal.
	Legal Proceedings
	Autodesk is involved in a variety of claims, suits, investigations and proceedings in the normal course of business activities including claims of alleged infringement of intellectual property rights, commercial, employment, piracy prosecution, business practices and other matters. In the Company’s opinion, resolution of pending matters is not expected to have a material adverse impact on its consolidated results of operations, cash flows or its financial position. Given the unpredictable nature of legal proceedings, there is a reasonable possibility that an unfavorable resolution of one or more such proceedings could in the future materially affect the Company’s results of operations, cash flows or financial position in a particular period, however, based on the information known by the Company as of the date of this filing and the rules and regulations applicable to the preparation of the Company’s financial statements, any such amount is either immaterial or it is not possible to provide an estimated amount of any such potential loss.

Common_Stock_Repurchase_Progra

Common Stock Repurchase Program	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Class of Stock Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Common Stock Repurchase Program	'
	Common Stock Repurchase Program
	Autodesk has a stock repurchase program that is used to offset dilution from the issuance of stock under the Company’s employee stock plans and for such other purposes as may be in the interests of Autodesk and its stockholders, which has the effect of returning excess cash generated from the Company’s business to stockholders. During the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk repurchased and retired 1.9 million and 5.8 million shares at an average repurchase price of $54.11 and $52.81 per share, respectively. Common stock and additional paid-in capital and retained earnings were reduced by $47.2 million and $56.1 million, respectively, during the three months ended October 31, 2014. Common stock and additional paid-in capital and retained earnings were reduced by $151.1 million and $156.5 million, respectively, during the nine months ended October 31, 2014.
	At October 31, 2014, 16.0 million shares remained available for repurchase under the repurchase program approved by the Board of Directors. During the nine months ended October 31, 2014, Autodesk repurchased its common stock through open market purchases. The number of shares acquired and the timing of the purchases are based on several factors, including general market and economic conditions, the number of employee stock option exercises and stock issuances, the trading price of Autodesk common stock, cash on hand and available in the United States, cash requirements for acquisitions, and Company defined trading windows.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss), net of taxes, consisted of the following at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014:
		October 31, 2014			January 31, 2014
	Net gain on derivative instruments	$	23.1		$	3.5
	Net unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities	(0.3		)	1.8
	Defined benefit pension items	(7.7		)	(7.7		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(16.4		)	1.8
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)	$	(1.3	)	$	(0.6	)
	Pre-tax reclassifications from “Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)” to the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 were $1.4 million and $2.0 million, respectively. Pre-tax reclassifications from “Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)” to the Company's Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 were $3.6 million and $9.7 million, respectively.

Net_Income_Per_Share

Net Income Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Net Income Per Share	'
	Net Income Per Share
	Basic net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period, excluding stock options and restricted stock units. Diluted net income per share is based upon the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period and potentially dilutive common shares, including the effect of stock options and restricted stock units under the treasury stock method. The following table sets forth the computation of the numerators and denominators used in the basic and diluted net income per share amounts:
		Three Months Ended October 31,				Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	10.7	$	57.6	$	70.3	$	174.9
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic net income per share—weighted average shares	226.9		223.1		227.1		223.4
	Effect of dilutive securities	4.6		4.6		4.8		5.2
	Denominator for dilutive net income per share	231.5		227.7		231.9		228.6
	Basic net income per share	$	0.05	$	0.26	$	0.31	$	0.78
	Diluted net income per share	$	0.05	$	0.25	$	0.3	$	0.77
	The computation of diluted net income per share does not include shares that are anti-dilutive under the treasury stock method because their exercise prices are higher than the average market value of Autodesk’s stock during the period. For both the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014, there were no potentially anti-dilutive shares excluded from the computation of diluted net income per share. For the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013, 5.5 million and 6.7 million potentially anti-dilutive shares, respectively, were excluded from the computation of diluted net income per share.

Segments

Segments	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segments	'
	Segments
	Autodesk reports segment information based on the “management” approach. The management approach designates the internal reporting used by management for making decisions and assessing performance as the source of the Company’s reportable segments. Autodesk has four reportable segments: PSEB, Architecture, Engineering and Construction ("AEC"), MFG and M&E. Autodesk has no material inter-segment revenue.
	The PSEB, AEC and MFG segments derive revenue from the sale of licenses for software products and services to customers who design, build, manage or own building, manufacturing and infrastructure projects. Autodesk's M&E segment derives revenue from the sale of products to creative professionals, post-production facilities and broadcasters for a variety of applications, including feature films, television programs, commercials, music and corporate videos, interactive game production, web design and interactive web streaming.
	PSEB includes Autodesk’s design product, AutoCAD. Autodesk’s AutoCAD product is a platform product that underpins the Company’s design product offerings for the industries it serves. For example, AEC and MFG offer tailored versions of AutoCAD software for the industries they serve. Autodesk’s AutoCAD product also provides a platform for Autodesk’s developer partners to build custom solutions for a range of diverse design-oriented markets. PSEB's revenue primarily includes revenue from sales of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT, the Autodesk Design Suite and many other design products, including consumer design products, as well as from sales of licenses of other Autodesk's design products.
	AEC software products help to improve the way building, civil infrastructure, process plant and construction projects are designed, built and managed. A broad portfolio of solutions enables greater efficiency, accuracy and sustainability across the entire project lifecycle. Autodesk AEC solutions include advanced technology for building information modeling ("BIM"), AutoCAD-based design and documentation productivity software, sustainable design analysis applications, and collaborative project management solutions. BIM, an integrated process for building and infrastructure design, analysis, documentation and construction, uses consistent, coordination information to improve communication and collaboration between the extended project team. AEC provides a comprehensive portfolio of BIM solutions that help customers deliver projects faster and more economically, while minimizing environmental impact. AEC’s revenue primarily includes revenue from the sales of licenses of Autodesk Building Design Suites, AutoCAD Civil 3D, AutoCAD Map, and Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suites.
	MFG provides the manufacturers in automotive and transportation, industrial machinery, consumer products and building products with comprehensive digital prototyping solutions that bring together design data from all phases of the product development process to develop a single digital model created in Autodesk Inventor software. Autodesk’s solutions for digital prototyping enable a broad group of manufacturers to realize benefits with minimal disruption to existing workflows. MFG’s revenue primarily includes revenue from the sales of licenses of Autodesk Product Design Suites, AutoCAD Mechanical, and Autodesk Moldflow products.
	M&E consists of two product groups: Animation, including design visualization, and Creative Finishing. Animation products, such as Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3ds Max, and the Autodesk Entertainment Creation Suites, provide tools for digital sculpting, modeling, animation, effects, rendering and compositing, for design visualization, visual effects and games production. M&E products are also included in a number of PSEB, AEC, and MFG focused suites. Creative Finishing products provide editing, finishing and visual effects design and color grading.
	All of Autodesk’s reportable segments distribute their respective products primarily through authorized resellers and distributors and, to a lesser extent, through direct sales to end-users.
	The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in Note 1, “Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” of Autodesk's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014. Autodesk evaluates each segment’s performance on the basis of gross profit. Autodesk currently does not separately accumulate and report asset information by segment, except for goodwill, which is disclosed in Note 9, “Goodwill.”
	Information concerning the operations of Autodesk’s reportable segments is as follows:
		Three Months Ended October 31,						Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net revenue:
	Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	$	188.4		$	183.4		$	607.8		$	593.4
	Architecture, Engineering and Construction	217.1			185.9			630.5			535.1
	Manufacturing	169.7			142			485.2			425.1
	Media and Entertainment	42.8			43.9			124.1			133.7
		$	618		$	555.2		$	1,847.60		$	1,687.30
	Gross profit:
	Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	$	167.3		$	165.9		$	543.6		$	540.7
	Architecture, Engineering and Construction	194.3			168.9			566			485
	Manufacturing	152.8			130.1			437			389.9
	Media and Entertainment	32.1			35.4			93.3			106.2
	Unallocated (1)	(14.5		)	(12.2		)	(44.9		)	(36.9		)
		$	532		$	488.1		$	1,595.00		$	1,484.90
	_______________
	-1	Unallocated amounts primarily relate to corporate expenses and other costs and expenses that are managed outside the reportable segments, including stock-based compensation expense.
	Information regarding Autodesk’s operations by geographic area is as follows:
		Three Months Ended October 31,						Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net revenue:
	Americas
	U.S.	$	189.3		$	171.3		$	543.4		$	502.3
	Other Americas	41.5			37			116.4			109.8
	Total Americas	230.8			208.3			659.8			612.1
	Europe, Middle East and Africa	238.2			204.4			707.2			622.4
	Asia Pacific
	Japan	58			61.9			215.1			207.6
	Other Asia Pacific	91			80.6			265.5			245.2
	Total Asia Pacific	149			142.5			480.6			452.8
	Total net revenue	$	618		$	555.2		$	1,847.60		$	1,687.30

Basis_of_Presentation_Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Autodesk, Inc. (“Autodesk,” “we,” “us,” “our,” or the “Company”) as of October 31, 2014, and for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information along with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for annual financial statements. In management’s opinion, Autodesk made all adjustments (consisting of normal, recurring and non-recurring adjustments) during the quarter that were considered necessary for the fair presentation of the financial position and operating results of the Company. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In addition, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year ending January 31, 2015, or for any other period. These unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes, together with management’s discussion and analysis of financial position and results of operations contained in Autodesk’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2014, filed on March 10, 2014.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards	'
	With the exception of those discussed below, there have been no recent changes in accounting pronouncements issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) or adopted by the Company during the nine months ended October 31, 2014, that are of significance, or potential significance, to the Company.
	Accounting Standards Adopted in the Nine Months Ended October 31, 2014
	Effective February 1, 2014, Autodesk prospectively adopted FASB's Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-11 regarding ASC Topic 740 “Income Tax.” This ASU clarifies the guidance on the presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward. The adoption of this ASU impacted the presentation of tax assets and liabilities on the statement of financial position, but did not impact its results of operations or cash flows.
	Recently Issued Accounting Standards
	On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09 regarding ASC Topic 606 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers.” This ASU provides principles for recognizing revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU will be effective for Autodesk’s fiscal year beginning February 1, 2017. Early adoption is not permitted. Autodesk is currently evaluating the accounting, transition and disclosure requirements of the standard and cannot currently estimate the financial statement impact of adoption.

Basis_of_Presentation_Tables

Basis of Presentation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Reclassifications	'
	These expenses have been reclassified in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 and the three and nine months ended October 31, 2013 to conform to the current period presentation as follows:
		Nine Months Ended			Three Months Ended			Nine Months Ended
		October 31, 2014			October 31, 2013			October 31, 2013
	Reclassifications within operating expenses:
	(Decrease) to general and administrative	$	(10.9	)	$	(7.4	)	$	(27.5	)
	Increase to amortization of purchased intangibles	10.9			7.4			27.5

Financial_Instruments_Tables

Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'
Cost And Fair Value Of Financial Instruments Disclosure	'
	The following tables summarize the Company's financial instruments' amortized cost, gross unrealized gains, gross unrealized losses, and fair value by significant investment category as of October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014:
				October 31, 2014
				Amortized Cost				Gross unrealized gains				Gross unrealized losses				Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Cash equivalents (1):
		Certificates of deposit and time deposits		$	328.1			$	—			$	—			$	328.1	$	165.1	$	163	$	—
		Agency discount note		57.3				—				—				57.3		57.3		—		—
		Commercial paper and corporate bonds		216.8				—				—				216.8		16.3		200.5		—
		Money market funds		65.3				—				—				65.3		—		65.3		—
		Other (2)		7				—				—				7		2		5		—
	Marketable securities:
		Short-term available for sale
			Commercial paper and certificates of deposit	242.5				—				—				242.5		6.2		236.3		—
			Time deposits	132.3				—				—				132.3		—		132.3		—
			Corporate debt securities	99.6				—				—				99.6		99.6		—		—
			Municipal securities	22.3				0.1				—				22.4		22.4		—		—
			Treasury bill	6				—				—				6		6		—		—
			Other (3)	9.5				—				—				9.5		9.5		—		—
		Short-term trading securities
			Mutual funds	38.7				5.4				—				44.1		44.1		—		—
		Long-term available for sale
			Corporate debt securities	186.4				0.4				(0.2		)		186.6		186.6		—		—
			Agency bond	40.7				0.1				—				40.8		40.8		—		—
			U.S. government agency securities	10				—				—				10		10		—		—
			Municipal securities	18				0.1				—				18.1		18.1		—		—
	Convertible debt securities (4)			16.5				4.8				(8.1		)		13.2		—		—		13.2
	Derivative contracts (5)			6.2				21.4				(7.2		)		20.4		—		16.7		3.7
			Total	$	1,503.20			$	32.3			$	(15.5	)		$	1,520.00	$	684	$	819.1	$	16.9
	____________________
	-1	Included in “Cash and cash equivalents” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-2	Consists of international government bonds and municipal securities.
	-3	Consists of U.S. government agency securities, agency discount notes, and other short-term securities.
	-4	Considered “available for sale” and included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-5	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Other assets,” or “Other accrued liabilities” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
				January 31, 2014
				Amortized Cost				Gross unrealized gains				Gross unrealized losses				Fair Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	Cash equivalents (1):
		Certificates of deposit and time deposits		$	280.7			$	—			$	—			$	280.7	$	30.4	$	250.3	$	—
		Commercial paper		280.5				—				—				280.5		—		280.5		—
		Municipal securities		2				—				—				2		2		—		—
		Money market funds		262.8				—				—				262.8		—		262.8		—
	Marketable securities:
		Short-term available for sale
			Commercial paper and corporate debt securities	261				—				—				261		95.4		165.6		—
			Time deposits	37.1				—				—				37.1		—		37.1		—
			Agency bond	42.7				—				—				42.7		42.7		—		—
			U.S. government agency securities	11.3				—				—				11.3		11.3		—		—
			Municipal securities	11.7				—				—				11.7		11.7		—		—
			Other (2)	11.4				—				—				11.4		11.4		—		—
		Short-term trading securities
			Mutual funds	35.6				3.3				—				38.9		38.9		—		—
		Long-term available for sale
			Corporate debt securities	179.7				0.7				(0.1		)		180.3		180.3		—		—
			Agency bond	43.3				0.1				—				43.4		43.4		—		—
			U.S. government agency securities	9.8				—				—				9.8		9.8		—		—
			Municipal securities	43.5				0.3				—				43.8		43.8		—		—
	Convertible debt securities (3)			21.4				3.2				(4.4		)		20.2		—		—		20.2
	Derivative contracts (4)			10.8				14.8				(6.0		)		19.6		—		10.5		9.1
			Total	$	1,545.30			$	22.4			$	(10.5	)		$	1,557.20	$	521.1	$	1,006.80	$	29.3
	____________________
	-1	Included in “Cash and cash equivalents” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-2	Consists of agency discount notes, U.S. treasury bills, and other short-term securities.
	-3	Considered “available for sale” and included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	-4	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Other assets,” or “Other accrued liabilities” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis	'
	A reconciliation of the change in Autodesk’s Level 3 items for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 was as follows:
		Fair Value Measurements Using
		Significant Unobservable Inputs
		(Level 3)
			Derivative Contracts				Convertible Debt Securities				Total
	Balance at January 31, 2014		$	9.1			$	20.2			$	29.3
	Purchases		0.1				0.4				0.5
	Settlements		(1.1		)		(3.3		)		(4.4		)
	Net realized (losses)		(3.0		)		(2.2		)		(5.2		)
	Net unrealized (losses)		(1.4		)		(1.9		)		(3.3		)
	Balance at October 31, 2014		$	3.7			$	13.2			$	16.9
Available-for-sale Securities	'
	The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of Autodesk's “available-for-sale securities” classified by the contractual maturity date of the security:
		October 31, 2014
		Cost				Fair Value
	Due within 1 year	$	512.2			$	512.3
	Due in 1 year through 5 years	271.6				268.7
	Total	$	783.8			$	781
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value	'
	The fair values of derivative instruments in Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets were as follows as of October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014:
		Balance Sheet Location		Fair Value at
				October 31, 2014				January 31, 2014
	Derivative Assets
	Foreign currency contracts designated as cash flow hedges	Prepaid expenses and other current assets (1)		$	19.7			$	4.4
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	Prepaid expenses and other current assets and Other assets		3.7				16.9
	Total derivative assets			$	23.4			$	21.3
	Derivative Liabilities
	Foreign currency contracts designated as cash flow hedges	Other accrued liabilities (2)		$	3			$	1.7
	Total derivative liabilities			$	3			$	1.7
	____________________
	-1	Considering Autodesk's master netting arrangements, these contracts are presented net settled. The gross balance is $20.3 million and $5.9 million at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.
	-2	Considering Autodesk's master netting arrangements, these contracts are presented net settled. The gross balance is $3.6 million and $3.2 million at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	'
	The effects of derivatives designated as hedging instruments on Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (amounts presented include any income tax effects):
		Foreign Currency
		Contracts
		Three Months Ended October 31,								Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014				2013				2014				2013
	Amount of gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income on derivatives (effective portion)	$	22.3			$	(4.6	)		$	22.5			$	8
	Amount and location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income (effective portion)
	Net revenue	$	2.1			$	2.3			$	4.6			$	11
	Operating expenses	(0.8		)		(0.3		)		(1.7		)		(1.3		)
	Total	$	1.3			$	2			$	2.9			$	9.7
	Amount and location of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)
	Interest and other (expense) income, net	$	0.1			$	(0.1	)		$	0.3			$	(0.1	)
	The effects of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on Autodesk’s Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations were as follows for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively (amounts presented include any income tax effects):
		Three Months Ended October 31,								Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014				2013				2014				2013
	Amount and location of (loss) gain recognized in income on derivatives
	Interest and other (expense) income, net	$	(4.5	)		$	2.9			$	(14.8	)		$	4.9

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens1

Stock-based Compensation Expense (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	'
	A summary of stock option activity for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Number of			Weighted average exercise price per share				Weighted		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (3)
		Shares							average remaining contractual term
		(in millions)							(in years)		(in millions)
	Options outstanding at January 31, 2014	5.9			$	33.54
	Granted (1)	—			—
	Exercised	(2.7	)		32.87
	Canceled/Forfeited	—			—
	Options outstanding at October 31, 2014	3.2			$	34.12			4.3		$	74.6
	Options vested and exercisable at October 31, 2014	2.9			$	33.44			4		$	69.4
	Options vested as of October 31, 2014 and expected to vest thereafter (2)	3.2			$	34.12			4.3		$	74.6
	Options available for grant at October 31, 2014	15.9
	_______________
	-1	Autodesk did not grant stock options in the nine months ended October 31, 2014.
	-2	Options expected to vest reflect an estimated forfeiture rate.
	-3	Represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value, based on Autodesk’s closing stock price of $57.54 per share as of October 31, 2014, which would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of that date.
Intrinsic Value of Options Exercised and Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value of Stock Options Granted	'
	The following table summarizes information about the pre-tax intrinsic value of options exercised and the weighted average grant date fair value per share of options granted during the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013:
		Three Months Ended								Nine Months Ended
		October 31, 2014				October 31, 2013				October 31, 2014			October 31, 2013
	Pre-tax intrinsic value of options exercised (1)	$	10.3			$	37.4			$	54.5		$	80.2
	Weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted (2)	$	—			$	—			$	—		$	—
	_______________
	-1	The intrinsic value of options exercised is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the option and the market value of the stock on the date of exercise.
	-2	The weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted is calculated, as of the stock option grant date, using the Black-Scholes Merton ("BSM") option pricing model. For the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Autodesk did not grant stock options.
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range	'
	The following table summarizes information about options outstanding and exercisable at October 31, 2014:
		Options Vested and Exercisable												Options Outstanding
		Number of			Weighted		Weighted				Aggregate			Number of	Weighted	Weighted		Aggregate
		Shares			average		average				intrinsic			Shares	average	average		intrinsic
		(in millions)			contractual		exercise				value (1)			(in millions)	contractual	exercise		value (1)
					life		price				(in millions)				life	price		(in millions)
					(in years)										(in years)
	Range of per-share exercise prices:
	$2.28 - $29.49	1.1					$	23.74						1.1		$	23.8
	$29.50 - $41.62	1.4					38.39							1.6		38.41
	$42.39 - $43.81	0.4					43.8							0.5		43.79
		2.9			4		$	33.44			$	69.4		3.2	4.3	$	34.12	$	74.6
	_______________
	-1	Represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value, based on Autodesk’s closing stock price of $57.54 per share as of October 31, 2014, which would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of that date.
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity	'
	A summary of restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended October 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Unvested			Weighted
		Restricted			average grant
		Stock Units			date fair value
					per share
		(in thousands)
	Unvested restricted stock units at January 31, 2014	6,515.60			$	39.15
	Granted	3,572.00			52.89
	Vested	(2,062.5	)		38.1
	Canceled/Forfeited	(380.7	)		40.53
	Performance Adjustment (1)	(74.7	)		42.23
	Unvested restricted stock units at October 31, 2014	7,569.70			$	45.96
	_______________
	-1	Based on Autodesk's financial results for both the fiscal 2013 and 2014 performance period. The performance stock units were earned at 92.3% and 65.8% of the target award for granted in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014, respectively.
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs	'
	The following table summarizes stock-based compensation expense for the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, as follows:
		Three Months Ended October 31, 2014				Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
	Cost of license and other revenue	$	1.2			$	0.9
	Cost of subscription	1.1				0.5
	Marketing and sales	19.4				14.5
	Research and development	14.7				10.2
	General and administrative	6.7				5.5
	Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases	43.1				31.6
	Tax benefit	(11.7		)		(9.6		)
	Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases, net of tax	$	31.4			$	22
		Nine Months Ended October 31, 2014				Nine Months Ended October 31, 2013
	Cost of license and other revenue	$	3.2			$	2.7
	Cost of subscription	2.9				1.6
	Marketing and sales	51				42.5
	Research and development	39.3				31.3
	General and administrative	20.1				18
	Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases	116.5				96.1
	Tax benefit	(31.3		)		(27.0		)
	Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases, net of tax	$	85.2			$	69.1
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award	'
	Autodesk uses the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of stock-based awards:
		Three Months Ended October 31, 2014					Three Months Ended October 31, 2013
			Performance Stock Unit (1)		ESPP		Performance Stock Unit (1)		ESPP
	Range of expected volatilities		N/A		29 - 30%		N/A		30 - 35%
	Range of expected lives (in years)		N/A		0.5 - 2.0		N/A		0.5 - 2.0
	Expected dividends		N/A		—%		N/A		—%
	Range of risk-free interest rates		N/A		0.0 - 0.6%		N/A		0.1 - 0.4%
		Nine Months Ended October 31, 2014					Nine Months Ended October 31, 2013
			Performance Stock Unit		ESPP		Performance Stock Unit		ESPP
	Range of expected volatilities		30%		29 - 33%		34%		27 - 36%
	Range of expected lives (in years)		N/A		0.5 - 2.0		N/A		0.5 - 2.0
	Expected dividends		—%		—%		—%		—%
	Range of risk-free interest rates		0.10%		0.0 - 0.6%		0.10%		0.1 - 0.4%
	_______________
	-1	Autodesk did not grant PSUs in the three months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013 that were subject to market conditions.

Acquisitions_Acquisitions_Tabl

Acquisitions Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'
	The following table summarizes the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed by major class for the business combinations and technology acquisitions completed during the nine months ended October 31, 2014:
		Shotgun			Within Technologies			Delcam			Other
	Developed technologies	$	5.4		$	4.6		$	28.9		$	35.4
	Customer relationships and other non-current intangible assets	7.5			3.6			39.7			9.1
	Trade name	1.6			1.2			16.5			5.8
	Goodwill	43.2			80.6			192.8			159.6
	Deferred revenue (current and non-current)	(0.7		)	—			(10.4		)	(0.2		)
	Deferred tax liability	(2.6		)	(1.7		)	(15.3		)	(1.9		)
	Net tangible assets (liabilities)	0.1			(0.3		)	32.4			(0.6		)
	Total	$	54.5		$	88		$	284.6		$	207.2

Other_Intangible_Assets_Net_Ta

Other Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	'
	Other intangible assets that include developed technologies, customer relationships, trade names, patents, user lists and the related accumulated amortization were as follows:
		October 31, 2014			January 31, 2014
	Developed technologies, at cost	$	537.1		$	462.4
	Customer relationships, trade names, patents, and user list, at cost (1)	352.9			268.1
		890			730.5
	Less: Accumulated amortization	(696.2		)	(626.2		)
	Other intangible assets, net	$	193.8		$	104.3
	_______________
	-1	Included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Customer relationships and trade names include the effects of foreign currency translation.

Goodwill_Tables

Goodwill (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Goodwill	'
	The change in the carrying amount of goodwill during the nine months ended October 31, 2014 is as follows:
		Platform			Architecture,			Manufacturing			Media and			Total
		Solutions and			Engineering						Entertainment
		Emerging			and
		Business			Construction
	Balances as of January 31, 2014
	Goodwill	$	142.3		$	415.2		$	411.6		$	190		$	1,159.10
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			—			—			(149.2		)	(149.2		)
		142.3			415.2			411.6			40.8			1,009.90
	Delcam	—			—			192.8			—			192.8
	Within Technologies	80.6			—			—			—			80.6
	Shotgun	—			—			—			43.2			43.2
	Addition arising from other acquisitions	110.9			15.5			17.9			15.3			159.6
	Effect of foreign currency translation and purchase accounting adjustments	(3.8		)	(6.2		)	(0.1		)	(1.9		)	(12.0		)
	Balance as of October 31, 2014
	Goodwill	330			424.5			622.2			246.6			1,623.30
	Accumulated impairment losses	—			—			—			(149.2		)	(149.2		)
		$	330		$	424.5		$	622.2		$	97.4		$	1,474.10

Computer_Equipment_Software_Fu1

Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Computer equipment, software, furniture, leasehold improvements and the related accumulated depreciation were as follows:
		October 31, 2014			January 31, 2014
	Computer software, at cost	$	84.6		$	80.9
	Computer hardware, at cost	185.7			163
	Leasehold improvements, land and buildings, at cost	180			163.7
	Furniture and equipment, at cost	49.6			51.7
		499.9			459.3
	Less: Accumulated depreciation	(339.5		)	(329.0		)
	Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture	$	160.4		$	130.3
	and equipment, net

Restructuring_Tables

Restructuring (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	The following table sets forth the restructuring activities during the nine months ended October 31, 2014:
		Balance at January 31, 2014		Additions		Payments			Adjustments (1)			Balance at October 31, 2014
	Fiscal 2014 Plan
	Employee termination costs	$	3.5	$	2.6	$	(6.0	)	$	(0.1	)	$	—
	Lease termination and asset costs	1.3		0.3		(0.4		)	0.3			1.5
	Total	$	4.8	$	2.9	$	(6.4	)	$	0.2		$	1.5
	Current portion (2)	$	3.8									$	0.7
	Non-current portion (2)	1										0.8
	Total	$	4.8									$	1.5
	____________________
	-1	Adjustments include the impact of foreign currency translation.
	-2	The current and non-current portions of the reserve are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under “Other accrued liabilities” and “Other liabilities,” respectively.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss), net of taxes, consisted of the following at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014:
		October 31, 2014			January 31, 2014
	Net gain on derivative instruments	$	23.1		$	3.5
	Net unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities	(0.3		)	1.8
	Defined benefit pension items	(7.7		)	(7.7		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	(16.4		)	1.8
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)	$	(1.3	)	$	(0.6	)

Net_Income_Per_Share_Tables

Net Income Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share	'
	The following table sets forth the computation of the numerators and denominators used in the basic and diluted net income per share amounts:
		Three Months Ended October 31,				Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net income	$	10.7	$	57.6	$	70.3	$	174.9
	Denominator:
	Denominator for basic net income per share—weighted average shares	226.9		223.1		227.1		223.4
	Effect of dilutive securities	4.6		4.6		4.8		5.2
	Denominator for dilutive net income per share	231.5		227.7		231.9		228.6
	Basic net income per share	$	0.05	$	0.26	$	0.31	$	0.78
	Diluted net income per share	$	0.05	$	0.25	$	0.3	$	0.77

Segments_Tables

Segments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment	'
	Information concerning the operations of Autodesk’s reportable segments is as follows:
		Three Months Ended October 31,						Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net revenue:
	Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	$	188.4		$	183.4		$	607.8		$	593.4
	Architecture, Engineering and Construction	217.1			185.9			630.5			535.1
	Manufacturing	169.7			142			485.2			425.1
	Media and Entertainment	42.8			43.9			124.1			133.7
		$	618		$	555.2		$	1,847.60		$	1,687.30
	Gross profit:
	Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	$	167.3		$	165.9		$	543.6		$	540.7
	Architecture, Engineering and Construction	194.3			168.9			566			485
	Manufacturing	152.8			130.1			437			389.9
	Media and Entertainment	32.1			35.4			93.3			106.2
	Unallocated (1)	(14.5		)	(12.2		)	(44.9		)	(36.9		)
		$	532		$	488.1		$	1,595.00		$	1,484.90
	_______________
	-1	Unallocated amounts primarily relate to corporate expenses and other costs and expenses that are managed outside the reportable segments, including stock-based compensation expense.
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area	'
	Information regarding Autodesk’s operations by geographic area is as follows:
		Three Months Ended October 31,						Nine Months Ended October 31,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net revenue:
	Americas
	U.S.	$	189.3		$	171.3		$	543.4		$	502.3
	Other Americas	41.5			37			116.4			109.8
	Total Americas	230.8			208.3			659.8			612.1
	Europe, Middle East and Africa	238.2			204.4			707.2			622.4
	Asia Pacific
	Japan	58			61.9			215.1			207.6
	Other Asia Pacific	91			80.6			265.5			245.2
	Total Asia Pacific	149			142.5			480.6			452.8
	Total net revenue	$	618		$	555.2		$	1,847.60		$	1,687.30

Basis_of_Presentation_Reclassi

Basis of Presentation Reclassification (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
(Decrease) to general and administrative	$78.90	$55.80	$212.90	$158.80
Increase to amortization of purchased intangibles	9.5	7.4	30.5	27.5
Reclassification of Amortization Of Intangible Assets	'	'	'	'
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
(Decrease) to general and administrative	'	-7.4	-10.9	-27.5
Increase to amortization of purchased intangibles	'	$7.40	$10.90	$27.50

Concentration_of_Credit_Risk_A

Concentration of Credit Risk Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
		Accounts Receivable	Accounts Receivable	Tech Data	Tech Data	Tech Data	Tech Data
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Unsecured revolving credit facility	$400,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Total sales to the distributors Tech Data Corporation and its global affiliates ("Tech Data") relative to Autodesk's consolidated net revenue	'	'	'	26.00%	24.00%	26.00%	25.00%
Percentage of gross accounts receivable accounted for by Tech Data	'	22.00%	24.00%	'	'	'	'

Financial_Instruments_Cost_and

Financial Instruments Cost and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Jan. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	$1,345		$1,853		$1,473.40	$1,612.20
Total	783.8		'		'	'
Derivative contracts, Amortized Cost	6.2	[1]	10.8	[1]	'	'
Derivative contracts, Gross unrealized gains	21.4	[1]	14.8	[1]	'	'
Derivative contracts, Gross unrealized losses	-7.2	[1]	-6	[1]	'	'
Derivative contracts, Fair Value	20.4	[1]	19.6	[1]	'	'
Amortized Cost	1,503.20		1,545.30		'	'
Gross unrealized gains	32.3		22.4		'	'
Gross unrealized losses	-15.5		-10.5		'	'
Fair Value	1,520		1,557.20		'	'
Short-term available for sale	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Mutual funds, Amortized Cost	38.7		35.6		'	'
Mutual funds, Gross unrealized gains	5.4		3.3		'	'
Mutual funds, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Mutual funds, Fair Value	44.1		38.9		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Commercial paper and certificates of deposit	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	242.5		261		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	242.5		261		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	132.3		37.1		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	132.3		37.1		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	99.6		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	99.6		'		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	'		42.7		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	'		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	'		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		42.7		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	'		11.3		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	'		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	'		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		11.3		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Treasury bill	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	6		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	6		'		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	22.3		11.7		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0.1		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	22.4		11.7		'	'
Short-term available for sale | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	9.5	[2]	11.4	[3]	'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0	[2]	0	[3]	'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0	[2]	0	[3]	'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	9.5	[2]	11.4	[3]	'	'
Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	186.4		179.7		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0.4		0.7		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	-0.2		-0.1		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	186.6		180.3		'	'
Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	40.7		43.3		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0.1		0.1		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	40.8		43.4		'	'
Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	10		9.8		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	10		9.8		'	'
Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Amortized Cost	18		43.5		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized gains	0.1		0.3		'	'
Marketable securities, Gross unrealized losses	0		0		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	18.1		43.8		'	'
Convertible debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Total	16.5	[4]	21.4	[4]	'	'
Convertible debt securities, Gross unrealized gains	4.8	[4]	3.2	[4]	'	'
Convertible debt securities, Gross unrealized losses	-8.1	[4]	-4.4	[4]	'	'
Convertible debt securities, Fair Value	13.2	[4]	20.2	[4]	'	'
Certificates of deposit and time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	328.1	[5]	280.7	[5]	'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	328.1	[5]	280.7	[5]	'	'
Agency discount note	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	57.3	[5]	'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	57.3	[5]	'		'	'
Commercial paper	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	216.8	[5]	280.5	[5]	'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	216.8	[5]	280.5	[5]	'	'
Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	'		2	[5]	'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	'		2	[5]	'	'
Money market funds	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	65.3	[5]	262.8	[5]	'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	65.3	[5]	262.8	[5]	'	'
Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents	7	[5],[6]	'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	7	[5],[6]	'		'	'
Level 1	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Derivative contracts, Fair Value	0	[1]	0	[1]	'	'
Fair Value	684		521.1		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Mutual funds, Fair Value	44.1		38.9		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Commercial paper and certificates of deposit	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	6.2		95.4		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	99.6		'		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		42.7		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		11.3		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Treasury bill	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	6		'		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	22.4		11.7		'	'
Level 1 | Short-term available for sale | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	9.5	[2]	11.4	[3]	'	'
Level 1 | Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	186.6		180.3		'	'
Level 1 | Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	40.8		43.4		'	'
Level 1 | Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	10		9.8		'	'
Level 1 | Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	18.1		43.8		'	'
Level 1 | Convertible debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Convertible debt securities, Fair Value	0	[4]	0	[4]	'	'
Level 1 | Certificates of deposit and time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	165.1	[5]	30.4	[5]	'	'
Level 1 | Agency discount note	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	57.3	[5]	'		'	'
Level 1 | Commercial paper	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	16.3	[5]	0	[5]	'	'
Level 1 | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	'		2	[5]	'	'
Level 1 | Money market funds	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	0	[5]	0	[5]	'	'
Level 1 | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	2	[5],[6]	'		'	'
Level 2	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Derivative contracts, Fair Value	16.7	[1]	10.5	[1]	'	'
Fair Value	819.1		1,006.80		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Mutual funds, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Commercial paper and certificates of deposit	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	236.3		165.6		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	132.3		37.1		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		'		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		0		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		0		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Treasury bill	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		'		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 2 | Short-term available for sale | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0	[2]	0	[3]	'	'
Level 2 | Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 2 | Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 2 | Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 2 | Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 2 | Convertible debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Convertible debt securities, Fair Value	0	[4]	0	[4]	'	'
Level 2 | Certificates of deposit and time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	163	[5]	250.3	[5]	'	'
Level 2 | Agency discount note	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	0	[5]	'		'	'
Level 2 | Commercial paper	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	200.5	[5]	280.5	[5]	'	'
Level 2 | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	'		0	[5]	'	'
Level 2 | Money market funds	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	65.3	[5]	262.8	[5]	'	'
Level 2 | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	5	[5],[6]	'		'	'
Level 3	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Derivative contracts, Fair Value	3.7	[1]	9.1	[1]	'	'
Fair Value	16.9		29.3		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Mutual funds, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Commercial paper and certificates of deposit	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		'		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		0		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	'		0		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Treasury bill	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		'		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Short-term available for sale | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0	[2]	0	[3]	'	'
Level 3 | Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Long-term available for sale | Corporate debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Long-term available for sale | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Marketable securities, Fair Value	0		0		'	'
Level 3 | Convertible debt securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Convertible debt securities, Fair Value	13.2	[4]	20.2	[4]	'	'
Level 3 | Certificates of deposit and time deposits	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	0	[5]	0	[5]	'	'
Level 3 | Agency discount note	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	0	[5]	'		'	'
Level 3 | Commercial paper	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	0	[5]	0	[5]	'	'
Level 3 | Municipal securities	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	'		0	[5]	'	'
Level 3 | Money market funds	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	0	[5]	0	[5]	'	'
Level 3 | Other	'		'		'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'		'	'
Cash equivalents, Fair Value	$0	[5],[6]	'		'	'
[1]	Included in “Prepaid expenses and other current assets,” “Other assets,” or “Other accrued liabilities” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
[2]	Consists of U.S. government agency securities, agency discount notes, and other short-term securities.
[3]	Consists of agency discount notes, U.S. treasury bills, and other short-term securities.
[4]	Considered “available for sale” and included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
[5]	Included in “Cash and cash equivalents” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
[6]	Consists of international government bonds and municipal securities.

Financial_Instruments_Reconcil

Financial Instruments Reconciliation of the Change in Level 3 Items (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at January 31, 2014	$29.30
Purchases	0.5
Settlements	-4.4
Net realized (losses)	-5.2
Net unrealized (losses)	-3.3
Balance at October 31, 2014	16.9
Derivative Contracts	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at January 31, 2014	9.1
Purchases	0.1
Settlements	-1.1
Net realized (losses)	-3
Net unrealized (losses)	-1.4
Balance at October 31, 2014	3.7
Convertible Debt Securities	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]	'
Balance at January 31, 2014	20.2
Purchases	0.4
Settlements	-3.3
Net realized (losses)	-2.2
Net unrealized (losses)	-1.9
Balance at October 31, 2014	$13.20

Financial_Instruments_Contract

Financial Instruments Contractual Maturities of Types of Securities (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Cost	'
Due within 1 year	$512.20
Due in 1 year through 5 years	271.6
Total	783.8
Fair Value	'
Due within 1 year	512.3
Due in 1 year through 5 years	268.7
Total	$781

Financial_Instruments_Availabl

Financial Instruments Available for Sale Securities Gain/Loss Activity (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Financial Instruments [Abstract]	'	'
Other than temporary impairment losses, investments	$3,400,000	$0
Gain (loss) on investments	700,000	-200,000
Proceeds from sale and maturity of marketable securities	$783,900,000	$725,000,000

Financial_Instruments_Fair_Val

Financial Instruments Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Jan. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'		'
Derivative, notional amount	$401		$351.70
Net gain on derivative instruments	23.1		3.5
Derivative Assets	23.4		21.3
Derivative Liabilities	3		1.7
Not designated as hedging instrument | Prepaid expenses and other current assets and Other assets	'		'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'		'
Derivative Assets	3.7		16.9
Foreign currency contracts	'		'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'		'
Derivative, notional amount	24.5		205.5
Foreign currency contracts | Designated as hedging instrument | Prepaid expenses and other current assets	'		'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'		'
Derivative Assets	19.7	[1]	4.4	[1]
Derivative assets, gross	20.3		5.9
Foreign currency contracts | Designated as hedging instrument | Other accrued liabilities	'		'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'		'
Derivative Liabilities	3	[2]	1.7	[2]
Derivative liabilities, gross	$3.60		$3.20
[1]	Considering Autodesk's master netting arrangements, these contracts are presented net settled. The gross balance is $20.3 million and $5.9 million at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.
[2]	Considering Autodesk's master netting arrangements, these contracts are presented net settled. The gross balance is $3.6 million and $3.2 million at October 31, 2014 and January 31, 2014, respectively.

Financial_Instruments_Effects_

Financial Instruments Effects of Derivative Instruments on Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Details) (Foreign currency contracts, USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Designated as hedging instrument	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income on derivatives (effective portion)	$22.30	($4.60)	$22.50	$8
Amount and location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income (effective portion)	1.3	2	2.9	9.7
Designated as hedging instrument | Net revenue	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount and location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income (effective portion)	2.1	2.3	4.6	11
Designated as hedging instrument | Operating expenses	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount and location of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income (effective portion)	-0.8	-0.3	-1.7	-1.3
Designated as hedging instrument | Interest and other (expense) income, net	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount and location of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)	0.1	-0.1	0.3	-0.1
Not designated as hedging instrument | Interest and other (expense) income, net	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount and location of (loss) gain recognized in income on derivatives	($4.50)	$2.90	($14.80)	$4.90

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens2

Stock-based Compensation Expense Stock-Based Compensation Expense - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Jan. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Jan. 14, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

StockPlans

StockPlans

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Performance Shares

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Performance Shares

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Performance Shares

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)

Performance Stock Unit

Performance Stock Unit

Performance Stock Unit

Performance Stock Unit

Performance Stock Unit

Performance Stock Unit

Performance Stock Unit

Employee Stock Plan 2012

Employee Stock Plan 2012

Employee Stock Plan 2012

Employee Stock Plan 2012

Directors stock plan 2012

Directors stock plan 2012

Directors stock plan 2012

Directors stock plan 2012

ESP Plan

ESP Plan

ESP Plan

ESP Plan

Share-based compensation award, tranche one

Share-based compensation award, tranche two

Share-based compensation award, tranche three

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share based compensation arrangements by share based payment awards, number of active plans (plan)

2

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award expired or terminated plans (plan)

7

'

7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Awards, number of additional shares authorized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Awards, number of shares authorized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

32,600,000

'

'

2,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock issued during period, shares, restricted stock award, net of forfeitures

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

26,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock issued during period, shares, share-based compensation, forfeited

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based compensation shares granted to share issued

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.79

'

'

'

2.11

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Options granted in period

'

'

0

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20,500,000

'

'

'

600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Award vesting period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

'3 years

'

'

'

'

Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award options expiration term (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee stock plan shares remaining available for issuance

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,900,000

'

'

2,000,000

'

'

36,000,000

'

36,000,000

'

Sale of stock, price per share (in usd per share)

$57.54

'

$57.54

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Nonvested awards, total compensation cost not yet recognized

$1.60

'

$1.60

'

'

'

'

$236.20

'

$236.20

'

$7

'

$7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Nonvested options outstanding, weighted average remaining contractual term

'

'

'4 months 9 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Awards granted in period, weighted average grant date fair value (in usd per share)

'

'

'

'

$52.89

$40.64

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Awards vested in period, fair value

'

'

'

'

78.6

49

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Awards granted in period

'

'

'

'

3,572,000

'

'

'

'

3,100,000

'

'

'

500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

PSU Annual Vesting Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

33.33%

33.33%

33.33%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Allocated share-based compensation expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$31.20

$18.80

$82.10

$52.40

$4.90

$2.10

$12.70

$6.90

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Nonvested awards, total compensation cost not yet recognized, period for recognition

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year 10 months 17 days

'

'

'

'1 year 0 months 14 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Awards, nonvested, number

'

'

'

'

7,569,700

'

6,515,600

6,700,000

'

6,700,000

'

900,000

'

900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee stock purchase plan maximum percentage of compensation to purchase shares by eligible participants

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15.00%

'

Employee stock purchase plan minimum percentage of common stock fair value defined to purchase shares by eligible participants

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

85.00%

'

Options, other increases (decreases) in period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,000,000

'

Options, other increases (decreases) in period percentage calculation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.00%

'

Shares issued under employee stock purchase plans

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000

1,400,000

2,100,000

2,900,000

Awards issued, share average price (in usd per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$34.19

$22.95

$33.91

$22.61

Weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted (in dollars per share)

$0

[2]

$0

[2]

$0

[2]

$0

[2]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$15.44

$11.80

$15.14

$11.80

[1]

Autodesk did not grant stock options in the nine months ended October 31, 2014.

[2]

The weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted is calculated, as of the stock option grant date, using the Black-Scholes Merton ("BSM") option pricing model. For the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Autodesk did not grant stock options.

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens3

Stock-based Compensation Expense Schedule Of Share-based Compensation Options Activity (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Jan. 31, 2014
Number of Shares	'		'
Options outstanding (in shares)	5.9		'
Granted (in shares)	0	[1]	'
Exercised (in shares)	-2.7		'
Canceled/Forfeited (in shares)	0		'
Options outstanding (in shares)	3.2		'
Options vested and exercisable (in shares)	2.9		'
Options vested (in shares)	3.2	[2]	'
Options available (in shares)	15.9		'
Weighted average exercise price per share	'		'
Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$34.12		$33.54
Granted (in dollars per share)	$0	[1]	'
Exercised (in dollars per share)	$32.87		'
Canceled/Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$0		'
Vested and exercisable (in dollars per share)	$33.44		'
Vested (in dollars per share)	$34.12	[2]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'		'
Options outstanding, Weighted average remaining contractual term	'4 years 3 months 3 days		'
Options vested and exercisable, Weighted average remaining contractual term	'4 years 0 months 10 days		'
Options vested, Weighted average remaining contractual term	'4 years 3 months 3 days	[2]	'
Options outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$74.60	[3]	'
Options vested and exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	69.4	[3]	'
Options vested, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	$74.60	[2],[3]	'
$2.28 - $29.49	'		'
Number of Shares	'		'
Options outstanding (in shares)	1.1		'
Options vested and exercisable (in shares)	1.1		'
Weighted average exercise price per share	'		'
Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$23.80		'
Vested and exercisable (in dollars per share)	$23.74		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'		'
Exercise Price, Lower Limit (in dollars per share)	$2.28		'
Exercise Price, Upper Limit (in dollars per share)	$29.49		'
$29.50 - $41.62	'		'
Number of Shares	'		'
Options outstanding (in shares)	1.6		'
Options vested and exercisable (in shares)	1.4		'
Weighted average exercise price per share	'		'
Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$38.41		'
Vested and exercisable (in dollars per share)	$38.39		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'		'
Exercise Price, Lower Limit (in dollars per share)	$29.50		'
Exercise Price, Upper Limit (in dollars per share)	$41.62		'
$42.39 - $43.81	'		'
Number of Shares	'		'
Options outstanding (in shares)	0.5		'
Options vested and exercisable (in shares)	0.4		'
Weighted average exercise price per share	'		'
Outstanding (in dollars per share)	$43.79		'
Vested and exercisable (in dollars per share)	$43.80		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]	'		'
Exercise Price, Lower Limit (in dollars per share)	$42.39		'
Exercise Price, Upper Limit (in dollars per share)	$43.81		'
[1]	Autodesk did not grant stock options in the nine months ended October 31, 2014.
[2]	Options expected to vest reflect an estimated forfeiture rate.
[3]	Represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value, based on Autodesk’s closing stock price of $57.54 per share as of October 31, 2014, which would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of that date.

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens4

Stock-based Compensation Expense Intrinsic Value of Options Exercised and Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value of Stock Options Granted (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'		'		'		'
Pre-tax intrinsic value of options exercised	$10.30	[1]	$37.40	[1]	$54.50	[1]	$80.20	[1]
Weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted (in dollars per share)	$0	[2]	$0	[2]	$0	[2]	$0	[2]
[1]	The intrinsic value of options exercised is calculated as the difference between the exercise price of the option and the market value of the stock on the date of exercise.
[2]	The weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock options granted is calculated, as of the stock option grant date, using the Black-Scholes Merton ("BSM") option pricing model. For the three and nine months ended October 31, 2014 and 2013, Autodesk did not grant stock options.

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens5

Stock-based Compensation Expense Summary of Restricted Stock Award and Restricted Stock Unit Activity (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
Weighted average grant date fair value per share	'		'
Performance shares units payout	65.80%		92.30%
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) and Performance Shares	'		'
Unvested Restricted Stock Units	'		'
Unvested restricted stock units at January 31, 2014 (shares)	6,515,600		'
Granted (shares)	3,572,000		'
Vested (shares)	-2,062,500		'
Canceled/Forfeited (shares)	-380,700		'
Unvested restricted stock units at October 31, 2014 (shares)	7,569,700		'
Weighted average grant date fair value per share	'		'
Unvested restricted stock units at January 31, 2014 (usd per share)	$39.15		'
Granted (in usd per share)	$52.89		$40.64
Vested (in usd per share)	$38.10		'
Canceled/Forfeited (in usd per share)	$40.53		'
Unvested restricted stock units at October 31, 2014 (usd per share)	$45.96		'
Performance Stock Unit	'		'
Unvested Restricted Stock Units	'		'
Granted (shares)	500,000		'
Performance adjustment (shares)	-74,700	[1]	'
Unvested restricted stock units at October 31, 2014 (shares)	900,000		'
Weighted average grant date fair value per share	'		'
Performance adjustment (in usd per share)	$42.23	[1]	'
[1]	Based on Autodesk's financial results for both the fiscal 2013 and 2014 performance period. The performance stock units were earned at 92.3% and 65.8% of the target award for granted in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014, respectively.

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens6

Stock-based Compensation Expense Stock Based Compensation Expense (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases	$43.10	$31.60	$116.50	$96.10
Tax benefit	-11.7	-9.6	-31.3	-27
Stock-based compensation expense related to stock awards and ESPP purchases, net of tax	31.4	22	85.2	69.1
Cost of license and other revenue	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	1.2	0.9	3.2	2.7
Cost of subscription	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	1.1	0.5	2.9	1.6
Marketing and sales	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	19.4	14.5	51	42.5
Research and development	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	14.7	10.2	39.3	31.3
General and administrative	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	6.7	5.5	20.1	18
Performance Stock Unit	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	4.9	2.1	12.7	6.9
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Allocated share-based compensation expense	$31.20	$18.80	$82.10	$52.40

Stockbased_Compensation_Expens7

Stock-based Compensation Expense Assumption Used to Estimate the Fair Value of Stock-Based Awards (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
ESP Plan	'	'	'	'
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Expected dividends	0.00%	'	0.00%	'
ESP Plan | Minimum	'	'	'	'
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Range of expected volatilities	29.00%	30.00%	29.00%	27.00%
Range of expected lives (in years)	'6 months	'6 months	'6 months	'6 months
Expected dividends	0.00%	0.00%	'	'
Range of risk-free interest rates	0.00%	0.10%	0.00%	0.10%
ESP Plan | Maximum	'	'	'	'
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Range of expected volatilities	30.00%	35.00%	33.00%	36.00%
Range of expected lives (in years)	'2 years	'2 years	'2 years	'2 years
Expected dividends	0.00%	'	'	'
Range of risk-free interest rates	0.60%	0.40%	0.60%	0.40%
Performance Stock Unit	'	'	'	'
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Range of expected volatilities	'	'	30.00%	34.00%
Expected dividends	0.00%	'	0.00%	'
Range of risk-free interest rates	'	'	0.10%	0.10%

Income_Tax_Income_Tax_Details

Income Tax Income Tax (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Effective tax rate	'	8.00%	17.00%	22.00%	22.00%
Decrease in effective tax rate	'	9.00%	'	'	'
Effective tax rate excluding the impact of discrete tax items	'	31.00%	'	31.00%	'
Federal statutory rate	'	35.00%	'	35.00%	'
Unrecognized tax benefits	'	$236.70	'	$236.70	'
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	'	230.6	'	230.6	'
Deferred tax assets, net	'	178.4	'	178.4	'
Reduction in deferred tax assets	$51.70	'	'	'	'

Acquisitions_Acquisition_Detai

Acquisitions Acquisition (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended			0 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 27, 2014	29-May-14	29-May-14	Feb. 06, 2014	Feb. 06, 2014	Oct. 31, 2014
	Shotgun	Within Technologies	Within Technologies	Delcam	Delcam	Other
						business_combination
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Consideration	$54.50	$88	'	$284.60	'	$207.20
Cash consideration	51.2	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of original convertible debt investment	3.3	'	'	'	'	'
Goodwill, expected tax deductible amount	'	'	$78.90	'	$165.10	'
Number of businesses acquired (businesses)	'	'	'	'	'	16

Acquisitions_Summary_of_Fair_V

Acquisitions Summary of Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed by Major Class (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	$1,474.10	$1,009.90
Shotgun	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	43.2	'
Deferred revenue (current and non-current)	-0.7	'
Deferred tax liability	-2.6	'
Net tangible assets (liabilities)	0.1	'
Total	54.5	'
Shotgun | Developed technologies	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	5.4	'
Shotgun | Customer relationships and other non-current intangible assets	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	7.5	'
Shotgun | Trade name	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	1.6	'
Within Technologies	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	80.6	'
Deferred revenue (current and non-current)	0	'
Deferred tax liability	-1.7	'
Net tangible assets (liabilities)	-0.3	'
Total	88	'
Within Technologies | Developed technologies	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	4.6	'
Within Technologies | Customer relationships and other non-current intangible assets	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	3.6	'
Within Technologies | Trade name	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	1.2	'
Delcam	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	192.8	'
Deferred revenue (current and non-current)	-10.4	'
Deferred tax liability	-15.3	'
Net tangible assets (liabilities)	32.4	'
Total	284.6	'
Delcam | Developed technologies	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	28.9	'
Delcam | Customer relationships and other non-current intangible assets	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	39.7	'
Delcam | Trade name	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	16.5	'
Other	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	159.6	'
Deferred revenue (current and non-current)	-0.2	'
Deferred tax liability	-1.9	'
Net tangible assets (liabilities)	-0.6	'
Total	207.2	'
Other | Developed technologies	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	35.4	'
Other | Customer relationships and other non-current intangible assets	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	9.1	'
Other | Trade name	'	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'
Finite-lived intangibles	$5.80	'

Other_Intangible_Assets_and_Re

Other Intangible Assets and Related Accumulated Amortization (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014		Jan. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Other intangible assets, gross	$890		$730.50
Less: Accumulated amortization	-696.2		-626.2
Other intangible assets, net	193.8		104.3
Developed technologies, at cost	'		'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Other intangible assets, gross	537.1		462.4
Customer relationships, trade names, patents, and user list, at cost	'		'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]	'		'
Other intangible assets, gross	$352.90	[1]	$268.10	[1]
[1]	Included in “Other assets” in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Customer relationships and trade names include the effects of foreign currency translation.

Goodwill_Changes_in_the_Carryi

Goodwill Changes in the Carrying Amount of Goodwill (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	$1,159.10
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-149.2
Goodwill	1,009.90
Effect of foreign currency translation, purchase accounting and other	-12
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	1,623.30
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-149.2
Goodwill	1,474.10
Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	142.3
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Goodwill	142.3
Effect of foreign currency translation, purchase accounting and other	-3.8
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	330
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	0
Goodwill	330
Architecture, Engineering and Construction	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	415.2
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Goodwill	415.2
Effect of foreign currency translation, purchase accounting and other	-6.2
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	424.5
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	0
Goodwill	424.5
Manufacturing	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	411.6
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	0
Goodwill	411.6
Effect of foreign currency translation, purchase accounting and other	-0.1
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	622.2
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	0
Goodwill	622.2
Media and Entertainment	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	190
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	-149.2
Goodwill	40.8
Effect of foreign currency translation, purchase accounting and other	-1.9
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	246.6
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	-149.2
Goodwill	97.4
Delcam	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	192.8
Goodwill	192.8
Delcam | Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Delcam | Architecture, Engineering and Construction	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Delcam | Manufacturing	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	192.8
Delcam | Media and Entertainment	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Within Technologies	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	80.6
Goodwill	80.6
Within Technologies | Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	80.6
Within Technologies | Architecture, Engineering and Construction	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Within Technologies | Manufacturing	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Within Technologies | Media and Entertainment	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Shotgun	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	43.2
Goodwill	43.2
Shotgun | Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Shotgun | Architecture, Engineering and Construction	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Shotgun | Manufacturing	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	0
Shotgun | Media and Entertainment	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	43.2
Other acquisitions	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	159.6
Goodwill	159.6
Other acquisitions | Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	110.9
Other acquisitions | Architecture, Engineering and Construction	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	15.5
Other acquisitions | Manufacturing	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	17.9
Other acquisitions | Media and Entertainment	'
Goodwill [Roll Forward]	'
Goodwill, acquired during period	$15.30

Deferred_Compensation_Addition

Deferred Compensation Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]	'	'
Marketable securities	$811.90	'
Rabbi Trust Member	'	'
Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Excluding Share-based Payments and Postretirement Benefits [Line Items]	'	'
Deferred compensation liability	44.1	38.9
Deferred compensation liability current	4.9	1.9
Deferred compensation liability non-current	$39.20	$37

Computer_Equipment_Software_Fu2

Computer Equipment, Software, Furniture and Leasehold Improvements, Net (Details) (USD $)	Oct. 31, 2014	Jan. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture and equipment, gross	$499.90	$459.30
Less: Accumulated depreciation	-339.5	-329
Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture and equipment, net	160.4	130.3
Computer software, at cost	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture and equipment, gross	84.6	80.9
Computer hardware, at cost	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture and equipment, gross	185.7	163
Leasehold improvements, land and buildings, at cost	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture and equipment, gross	180	163.7
Furniture and equipment, at cost	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Computer software, hardware, leasehold improvements, furniture and equipment, gross	$49.60	$51.70

Borrowing_Arrangements_Additio

Borrowing Arrangements Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Oct. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
		Senior Notes	Senior Notes	Senior Notes	Senior Notes
				Senior Notes 2017	Senior Notes 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Debt instrument, face amount	'	'	'	$400,000,000	$350,000,000
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	'	'	'	1.95%	3.60%
Proceeds from debt, net of issuance costs	'	739,300,000	'	'	'
Debt instrument, unamortized discount	'	4,500,000	'	'	'
Debt issuance cost	'	6,100,000	'	'	'
Debt issuance redemption discount premium, percentage of principle amount	'	101.00%	'	'	'
Debt fair value	'	'	755,200,000	'	'
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	400,000,000	'	'	'	'
Line of credit facility, additional borrowings available	100,000,000	'	'	'	'
Line of credit facility, expiration date	31-May-18	'	'	'	'
Line of credit facility, outstanding borrowings	$0	'	'	'	'

Restructuring_Details

Restructuring (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2013

Oct. 31, 2014

Jan. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2014

Oct. 31, 2013

Fiscal 2014 Plan

Fiscal 2014 Plan

Fiscal 2014 Plan

Fiscal 2014 Plan

Fiscal 2014 Plan

Fiscal 2014 Plan

Position

Employee termination costs

Lease termination and asset costs

Minimum

Facility

Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of positions eliminated (position)

'

'

'

'

85

'

'

'

'

'

Number of facilities consolidated (facilities)

'

'

'

'

4

'

'

'

'

'

Expected cost

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$15

Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Beginning Balance

'

'

'

'

'

4.8

'

3.5

1.3

'

Additions

0

4.4

3.1

6.5

'

2.9

'

2.6

0.3

'

Payments

'

'

'

'

'

-6.4

'

-6

-0.4

'

Adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

0.2

[1]

'

-0.1

[1]

0.3

[1]

'

Ending Balance

'

'

'

'

'

1.5

'

0

1.5

'

Current portion

'

'

'

'

'

0.7

[2]

3.8

[2]

'

'

'

Non-current portion

'

'

'

'

'

$0.80

[2]

$1

[2]

'

'

'

[1]

Adjustments include the impact of foreign currency translation.

[2]

The current and non-current portions of the reserve are recorded in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets under “Other accrued liabilities” and “Other liabilities,” respectively.

Common_Stock_Repurchase_Progra1

Common Stock Repurchase Program Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2014
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Common Stock shares remained available for repurchase under repurchase plans (in shares)	16	16
Common Stock	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Repurchased shares of its common stock on the open market, value	$47.20	$151.10
Retained Earnings	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Repurchased shares of its common stock on the open market, value	$56.10	$156.50
Common Stock Repurchase Program	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Common stock repurchased and retired (in shares)	1.9	5.8
Repurchased shares of its common stock on the open market, average repurchase price per share (in usd per share)	$54.11	$52.81

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Jan. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Net gain on derivative instruments	$23.10	'	$23.10	'	$3.50
Net unrealized (loss) gain on available-for-sale securities	-0.3	'	-0.3	'	1.8
Defined benefit pension items	-7.7	'	-7.7	'	-7.7
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-16.4	'	-16.4	'	1.8
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)	-1.3	'	-1.3	'	-0.6
Pre-tax reclassifications from “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)”	$1.40	$2	$3.60	$9.70	'

Net_Income_Per_Share_Additiona

Net Income Per Share - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net income	$10.70	$57.60	$70.30	$174.90
Denominator:	'	'	'	'
Denominator for basic net income per share—weighted average shares	226,900,000	223,100,000	227,100,000	223,400,000
Effect of dilutive securities	4,600,000	4,600,000	4,800,000	5,200,000
Denominator for dilutive net income per share	231,500,000	227,700,000	231,900,000	228,600,000
Basic net income per share (in usd per share)	$0.05	$0.26	$0.31	$0.78
Diluted net income per share (in usd per share)	$0.05	$0.25	$0.30	$0.77
Potentially dilutive shares excluded from the computation of diluted net income per share	0	5,500,000	0	6,700,000

Segments_Concerning_the_Operat

Segments Concerning the Operations Of Reportable Segments (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013		Oct. 31, 2014		Oct. 31, 2013
					segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Number of reportable segments	'		'		4		'
Net revenue	$618		$555.20		$1,847.60		$1,687.30
Gross profit	532		488.1		1,595		1,484.90
Unallocated	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Gross profit	-14.5	[1]	-12.2	[1]	-44.9	[1]	-36.9	[1]
Platform Solutions and Emerging Business	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenue	188.4		183.4		607.8		593.4
Gross profit	167.3		165.9		543.6		540.7
Architecture, Engineering and Construction	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenue	217.1		185.9		630.5		535.1
Gross profit	194.3		168.9		566		485
Manufacturing	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net revenue	169.7		142		485.2		425.1
Gross profit	152.8		130.1		437		389.9
Media and Entertainment	'		'		'		'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Number of product groups	'		'		2		'
Net revenue	42.8		43.9		124.1		133.7
Gross profit	$32.10		$35.40		$93.30		$106.20
[1]	Unallocated amounts primarily relate to corporate expenses and other costs and expenses that are managed outside the reportable segments, including stock-based compensation expense.

Segments_Information_Regarding

Segments Information Regarding Operations by Geographic Area (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013	Oct. 31, 2014	Oct. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	$618	$555.20	$1,847.60	$1,687.30
Other Asia Pacific	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	'	'	265.5	245.2
Americas	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	230.8	208.3	659.8	612.1
Americas | U.S.	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	189.3	171.3	543.4	502.3
Americas | Other Americas	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	41.5	37	116.4	109.8
Europe, Middle East and Africa	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	238.2	204.4	707.2	622.4
Asia Pacific	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	149	142.5	480.6	452.8
Asia Pacific | Japan	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	58	61.9	215.1	207.6
Asia Pacific | Other Asia Pacific	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net revenue	$91	$80.60	'	'