| Cover Page Document | Sep. 04, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 4, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | PROGRESS SOFTWARE CORP /MA |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000876167 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 0-19417 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-2746201 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 14 Oak Park |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Bedford |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01730 |
| City Area Code | 781 |
| Local Phone Number | 280-4000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | PRGS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
