Entity Central Index Key Document document and entity information. Document Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. Document Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Container to support the formal attachment of each official or unofficial, public or private document as part of a submission package. Document And Entity Information [Table] Document And Entity Information [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Document And Entity Information [Line Items] Document And Entity Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Revenues Revenues Cost of revenues, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below Cost Of Revenue Selling, general and administrative expenses, exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below Selling General And Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation And Amortization Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Operating income Operating Income Loss Interest income Investment Income Net Interest expense Interest Expense Foreign currency exchange transaction losses, net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain Loss Before Tax Other expense, net Nonoperating Income Expense Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income of affiliates Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Minority Interest And Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense Benefit Equity in net income of affiliates Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Income from continuing operations Income Loss From Continuing Operations Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Income from discontinued operations, net of tax Income Loss From Discontinued Operations Net Of Tax Net income Profit Loss Net income/(loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Nielsen stockholders Net Income Loss Net income per share of common stock, basic Earnings Per Share Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations Income Loss From Continuing Operations Per Basic Share Income from discontinued operations, net of tax Income Loss From Discontinued Operations Net Of Tax Per Basic Share Net income attributable to Nielsen stockholders Earnings Per Share Basic Net income per share of common stock, diluted Earnings Per Share Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations Income Loss From Continuing Operations Per Diluted Share Income from discontinued operations, net of tax Income Loss From Discontinued Operations Net Of Tax Per Diluted Share Net income attributable to Nielsen stockholders Earnings Per Share Diluted Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, basic Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Basic Dilutive shares of common stock Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, diluted Weighted Average Number Of Diluted Shares Outstanding Dividends declared per common share Common Stock Dividends Per Share Declared Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Transaction And Translation Adjustment Net Of Tax Available for sale securities Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Adjustment Net Of Tax Changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income Loss Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Defined benefit pension plan adjustments Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Net Unamortized Gain Loss Arising During Period Net Of Tax Total other comprehensive income/(loss) Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Total comprehensive income Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Less: comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Total comprehensive income attributable to Nielsen stockholders Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Tax Available-for-sale securities, tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Tax Changes in the fair value of cash flow hedges, tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Tax Defined benefit pension plan adjustments, tax Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Net Unamortized Gain Loss Arising During Period Tax Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets: Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value Trade and other receivables, net of allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns of $42 and $39 as of June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively Receivables Net Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense And Other Assets Current Total current assets Assets Current Non-current assets Assets Noncurrent [Abstract] Property, plant and equipment, net Property Plant And Equipment Net Goodwill Goodwill Other intangible assets, net Intangible Assets Net Excluding Goodwill Deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets Net Noncurrent Other non-current assets Other Assets Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and equity: Liabilities And Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities Current [Abstract] Accounts payable and other current liabilities Accounts Payable And Other Accrued Liabilities Current Deferred revenues Deferred Revenue Current Income tax liabilities Accrued Income Taxes Current Current portion of long-term debt, capital lease obligations and short-term borrowings Debt Current Total current liabilities Liabilities Current Non-current liabilities Liabilities Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt and capital lease obligations Long Term Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 12) Commitments And Contingencies Equity: Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Nielsen stockholders’ equity Stockholders Equity Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Common stock, €0.07 par value, 1,185,800,000 and 1,185,800,000 shares authorized; 381,168,533 and 379,044,531 shares issued and 380,295,447 and 378,635,464 shares outstanding at June 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively Common Stock Value Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid In Capital Common Stock Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net Of Tax Total Nielsen stockholders’ equity Stockholders Equity Noncontrolling interests Minority Interest Total equity Stockholders Equity Including Portion Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and equity Liabilities And Stockholders Equity Trade and other receivables, allowances for doubtful accounts and sales returns Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable Current Common stock, par value Common Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock Shares Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock Shares Outstanding Increase decrease in accounts payable and other current liabilities and deferred revenues. Statement Of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement Of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Stock-based compensation expense Share Based Compensation Gain on sale of discontinued operations Discontinued Operation Gain Loss On Disposal Of Discontinued Operation Net Of Tax Currency exchange rate differences on financial transactions and other losses Foreign Currency Transaction Gain Loss Unrealized Equity in net income of affiliates, net of dividends received Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Net Of Dividends Or Distributions Depreciation and amortization Depreciation Depletion And Amortization Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of businesses acquired and divested: Increase Decrease In Operating Capital [Abstract] Trade and other receivables, net Increase Decrease In Accounts And Other Receivables Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase Decrease In Prepaid Deferred Expense And Other Assets Accounts payable and other current liabilities and deferred revenues Increase Decrease In Accounts Payable And Other Current Liabilities And Deferred Revenues Other non-current liabilities Increase Decrease In Other Noncurrent Liabilities Interest payable Increase Decrease In Interest Payable Net Income taxes Increase Decrease In Income Taxes Payable Net Of Income Taxes Receivable Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities [Abstract] Acquisition of subsidiaries and affiliates, net of cash acquired Payments To Acquire Interest In Subsidiaries And Affiliates Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries and affiliates, net Proceeds From Divestiture Of Interest In Subsidiaries And Affiliates Additions to property, plant and equipment and other assets Payments To Acquire Property Plant And Equipment Additions to intangible assets Payments To Acquire Intangible Assets Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities [Abstract] Net borrowings under revolving credit facility Proceeds From Repayments Of Lines Of Credit Proceeds from issuances of debt, net of issuance costs Proceeds From Debt Net Of Issuance Costs Repayment of debt Repayments Of Debt Increase in other short-term borrowings Proceeds From Repayments Of Other Debt Cash dividends paid to stockholders Payments Of Dividends Repurchase of common stock Payments For Repurchase Of Common Stock Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds From Issuance Of Shares Under Incentive And Share Based Compensation Plans Including Stock Options Other financing activities Proceeds From Payments For Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect Of Exchange Rate On Cash And Cash Equivalents Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Period Increase Decrease Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Net Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid Net Text Block [Abstract] Background and Basis of Presentation Business Description And Basis Of Presentation [Text Block] Summary of Recent Accounting Pronouncements Accounting Changes And Error Corrections [Text Block] Business Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Changes in and Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Component Comprehensive Income Note [Text Block] Restructuring Activities Restructuring And Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Long-term debt and other financing arrangements. Long-term Debt and Other Financing Arrangements Long Term Debt And Other Financing Arrangements [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Basis of Presentation Basis Of Accounting Policy Policy [Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share Policy [Text Block] Devaluation of foreign currency. Devaluation of Venezuelan Currency Devaluation Of Foreign Currency Policy [Text Block] Accounting for cumulative translation adjustment. Foreign Currency Matters Accounting For Cumulative Translation Adjustment Policy [Text Block] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations Policy [Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition Policy [Text Block] Pro Forma Information Business Acquisition Pro Forma Information [Text Block] Summarized Results of Operations for Discontinued Operations Schedule Of Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures [Text Block] Schedule of disposal groups including discontinued operations cash flow statement. Summary of Major Categories of Cash Flows from Discontinued Operations Schedule Of Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations Cash Flow Statement Table [Text Block] Summary of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill Schedule Of Goodwill [Text Block] Schedule of intangible assets. Other Intangible Assets Schedule Of Intangible Assets Table [Text Block] Summary of Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax by Component Schedule Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Table [Text Block] Schedule of reclassification of accumulated other comprehensive income loss. Summary of Reclassification of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss by Component Schedule Of Reclassification Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Table [Text Block] Summary of Changes in Liabilities for Restructuring Activities Schedule Of Restructuring And Related Costs [Text Block] Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Fair Value By Balance Sheet Grouping [Text Block] Outstanding Interest Rate Swaps Schedule Of Notional Amounts Of Outstanding Derivative Positions Table [Text Block] Fair Values of Derivative Instruments in Consolidated Balance Sheets Schedule Of Fair Value Hedging Instruments Statements Of Financial Performance And Financial Position Location Table [Text Block] Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Schedule Of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments Statements Of Financial Performance And Financial Position Location Table [Text Block] Summary of Long-Term Debt Schedule Of Debt Instruments [Text Block] Annual maturities for long term debt. Annual Maturities of Long-Term Debt Annual Maturities For Long Term Debt Table [Text Block] Common Stock Activity Schedule Of Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward Table [Text Block] Summary of Dividends Declared on Nielsen's Common Stock Dividends Declared Table [Text Block] Summary of Open Market Share Repurchases Activity Accelerated Share Repurchases [Text Block] Business Segment Information Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Text Block] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract] Business and basis of presentation. Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract] Business and basis of presentation. Business And Basis Of Presentation [Table] Business And Basis Of Presentation [Table] Business And Basis Of Presentation [Line Items] Business And Basis Of Presentation [Line Items] Number of reportable segments Number Of Reportable Segments Number of countries in which entity operates Number Of Countries In Which Entity Operates Common stock ownership percentage. Common stock issue price per share. Luxco owned. Luxco owned Luxco Owned [Member] Nielsen common stock. Nielsen's common stock Nielsen Common Stock [Member] Percentage of owned shares Common Stock Ownership Percentage Common stock par value Common Stock Issue Price Per Share Anti-dilutive shares excluded from calculation of earning per share under compensation plan Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share Amount Currency devaluation percentage. Scenario Statement Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified Scenario Unspecified [Domain] Before devaluation of currency Scenario Previously Reported [Member] After devaluation of currency Scenario Actual [Member] Currency devaluation percentage Currency Devaluation Percentage Foreign currency exchange transaction losses, net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain Loss Realized Foreign currency exchange rate Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Translation1 Complementary system of foreign currency administration. SICAD I Exchange Rate Complementary System Of Foreign Currency Administration [Member] Official exchange rate. Official Exchange Rate Official Exchange Rate [Member] Business acquisition purchase price. Business Combinations [Abstract] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule Of Business Acquisitions By Acquisition [Table] Schedule Of Business Acquisitions By Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree Business Acquisition Acquiree [Domain] Arbitron. Arbitron Arbitron [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business acquisition purchase price Business Acquisition Purchase Price Percentage ownership interest acquired Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage Acquisition Date Business Acquisition Effective Date Of Acquisition1 Acquisition related expenses Business Combination Acquisition Related Costs Revenues Business Acquisitions Pro Forma Revenue Income from continuing operations Business Acquisitions Pro Forma Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Changes In Accounting And Extraordinary Items Net Of Tax Net of cash paid for acquisitions Payments To Acquire Businesses Net Of Cash Acquired Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract] Discontinued Operations And Disposal Groups [Abstract] Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Harris Interactive Inc Harris Interactive, Inc. Harris Interactive Inc [Member] Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement Balance Sheet And Additional Disclosures By Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Business acquisition price per share of common stock Business Acquisition Share Price Discontinued operation gain loss on sale of discontinued operation net of tax expense benefit. Net proceeds associated with sale of business Proceeds From Divestiture Of Businesses Gain on sale, net of tax Discontinued Operation Gain Loss On Sale Of Discontinued Operation Net Of Tax Expense Benefit Loss on shut down of business in discontinued operations. Loss on shut down of business in discontinued operations Loss On Shut Down Of Business In Discontinued Operations Discontinued operation income loss from discontinued operation net of tax. Revenue Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Revenue Operating income Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Operating Income Loss Interest expense Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Interest Expense Income from operations before income taxes Discontinued Operation Income Loss From Discontinued Operation Before Income Tax Provision for income taxes Discontinued Operation Tax Effect Of Discontinued Operation Income from operations Discontinued Operation Income Loss From Discontinued Operation Net Of Tax Income from discontinued operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, interest expense Net cash provided by operating activities Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by investing activities Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by financing activities Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Discontinued Operations Net cash used for discontinued operations Net Cash Provided By Used In Discontinued Operations Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule Of Goodwill [Table] Schedule Of Goodwill [Table] Segments Statement Business Segments [Axis] Segments Segment [Domain] Buy. Buy Buy [Member] Watch. Watch Watch [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Balance beginning Acquisitions, divestitures and other adjustments Goodwill Period Increase Decrease Effect of foreign currency translation Goodwill Translation And Purchase Accounting Adjustments Balance ending Schedule of finite and indefinite lived intangible assets. Schedule of finite and indefinite lived intangible assets. Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule Of Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill deductible for income tax purposes Deferred Tax Assets Goodwill And Intangible Assets Indefinite lived intangibles accumulated amortization. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain] Trade names and trademarks Trademarks And Trade Names [Member] Indefinite-lived intangibles, Gross Amounts Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill Indefinite-lived intangibles, Accumulated Amortization Indefinite Lived Intangibles Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class Finite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name Finite Lived Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain] Trade names and trademarks. Trade names and trademarks Trade Names And Trademarks [Member] Customer - related intangibles Customer Related Intangible Assets [Member] Covenants not to compete. Covenants-not-to-compete Covenants Not To Compete [Member] Computer software Computer Software Intangible Asset [Member] Patents and other. Patents and other Patents And Other [Member] Amortized intangibles, Gross Amounts Finite Lived Intangible Assets Gross Amortized intangibles, Accumulated Amortization Finite Lived Intangible Assets Accumulated Amortization Amortized expenses computer software. Amortization expense, intangible assets Amortization Of Intangible Assets Amortization expense, computer software Amortized Expenses Computer Software Accumulated other comprehensive income loss. Other comprehensive income loss before reclassification. Other comprehensive income loss amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income. Net current period other comprehensive income loss. Comprehensive income loss tax attributable to noncontrolling interest. Net current period other comprehensive income loss attributable to parent. Equity [Abstract] Equity [Abstract] Equity Components Statement Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component Equity Component [Domain] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss), Net Currency Translation Adjustments Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Available-for-Sale Securities Availableforsale Securities [Member] Cash Flow Hedges Accumulated Net Gain Loss From Designated Or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss), Net Post Employment Benefits Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Beginning Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income Loss Before Reclassification Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income Loss Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net current period other comprehensive (loss)/income Net Current Period Other Comprehensive Income Loss Net current period other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income Loss Tax Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Net current period other comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to Nielsen stockholders Net Current Period Other Comprehensive Income Loss Attributable To Parent Ending Balance Other comprehensive income loss amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income before tax. Other comprehensive income loss amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income tax. Other comprehensive income loss amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income net of tax. Components of accumulated other comprehensive income. Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Components of accumulated other comprehensive income. Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Interest Rate Swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Actuarial (Gain) Loss [Member] Actuarial loss Actuarial Gain Loss [Member] Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, before tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Before Tax Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Tax Amount reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss Amounts Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Of Tax Restructuring And Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring And Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule Of Restructuring And Related Costs [Table] Schedule Of Restructuring And Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost And Reserve [Line Items] Beginning Balance Restructuring Reserve Charges Payments Payments For Restructuring Ending Balance Restructuring reserve Restructuring actions for remaining liabilities, Current Restructuring Reserve Current Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Table] Measurement Frequency Fair Value By Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency Fair Value Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring Fair Value Measurements Recurring [Member] Asset Class Fair Value By Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Asset Class [Domain] Investments in Equity Securities Equity Method Investments [Member] Plan assets for deferred compensation. Plan Assets for Deferred Compensation Plan Assets For Deferred Compensation [Member] Investment in mutual funds. Investment In Mutual Funds Investment In Mutual Funds [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy Fair Value By Fair Value Hierarchy Level [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value Inputs Level1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value Inputs Level2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value Inputs Level3 [Member] Liability Class Fair Value By Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value by Liability Class Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Liability Class [Domain] Interest Rate Swap Arrangements Deferred compensation liabilities. Deferred Compensation Liabilities Deferred Compensation Liabilities [Member] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring And Nonrecurring Basis Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Assets: Assets Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Assets Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities: Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Liabilities Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments Gain Loss By Hedging Relationship By Income Statement Location By Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments Gain Loss By Hedging Relationship By Income Statement Location By Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Hedging Relationship Derivative Instruments Gain Loss By Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship Hedging Relationship [Domain] Us dollar term loan floating to fixed rate swaps maturing on November fourteen. US Dollar term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on November 2014 Us Dollar Term Loan Floating To Fixed Rate Swaps Maturing On November Fourteen [Member] US Dollar term loan floating to fixed rate swaps maturing on September fifteen. US Dollar term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on September 2015 Us Dollar Term Loan Floating To Fixed Rate Swaps Maturing On September Fifteen [Member] Us dollar term loan floating to fixed rate swaps maturing on November fifteen. US Dollar term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on November 2015 Us Dollar Term Loan Floating To Fixed Rate Swaps Maturing On November Fifteen [Member] Euro term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on November fifteen. Euro term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on November 2015 Euro Term Loan Floating To Fixed Rate Swaps Maturing On November Fifteen [Member] Us dollar term loan floating to fixed rate swaps maturing on may sixteen. US Dollar term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on May 2016 Us Dollar Term Loan Floating To Fixed Rate Swaps Maturing On May Sixteen [Member] Us dollar term loan floating to fixed rate swaps maturing on November sixteen. US Dollar term loan floating-to-fixed rate swaps maturing on November 2016 Us Dollar Term Loan Floating To Fixed Rate Swaps Maturing On November Sixteen [Member] Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items] Derivative Instruments Gain Loss [Line Items] Notional Amount Derivative Notional Amount Maturity Date Derivative Maturity Dates Pretax losses from accumulated other comprehensive loss expected to be recognized in next twelve months. Pre-tax losses from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense expected to be recognized in next twelve months Pretax Losses From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Expected To Be Recognized In Next Twelve Months Fair value of derivatives included in accounts payable and other current liabilities. Fair value of derivatives included in other non current liabilities. Fair Values Derivatives Balance Sheet Location By Derivative Contract Type By Hedging Designation [Table] Fair Values Derivatives Balance Sheet Location By Derivative Contract Type By Hedging Designation [Table] Derivative Instrument Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Hedging Designation Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives Fair Value [Line Items] Accounts Payable and Other Current Liabilities Fair Value Of Derivatives Included In Accounts Payable And Other Current Liabilities Other Non-Current Liabilities Fair Value Of Derivatives Included In Other Non Current Liabilities Income Statement Location Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest Expense Interest Expense [Member] Amount of Loss/(Gain) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Effective Portion Net Amount of Loss Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments Gain Loss Reclassified From Accumulated O C I Into Income Effective Portion Net Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Instrument [Table] Debt Instrument [Table] Long-term Debt, Type Longterm Debt Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type Longterm Debt Type [Domain] Senior secured credit facility. Senior secured credit facilities Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] Debenture loans. Debenture Loans Debenture Loans [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total long-term debt, Weighted average interest rate Longterm Debt Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt Instrument Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name Debt Instrument Name [Domain] Libor based variable rate. Libor Based Variable Rate Libor Based Variable Rate [Member] Euro libor based variable rate. Euro Libor Based Variable Rate Euro Libor Based Variable Rate [Member] Libor or euro libor based variable rate. Euro LIBOR or LIBOR Based Variable Rate Libor Or Euro Libor Based Variable Rate [Member] Senior secured term loan facility due two thousand sixteen. Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due 2016 Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due Two Thousand Sixteen [Member] Senior secured term loan due two thousand and seventeen. Senior Secured Term Loan Due 2017 Senior Secured Term Loan Due Two Thousand And Seventeen [Member] Senior secured term loan due two thousand and nineteen. Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due 2019 Senior Secured Term Loan Due Two Thousand And Nineteen [Member] Senior secured term loan due two thousand and twenty one. Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due 2021 Senior Secured Term Loan Due Two Thousand And Twenty One [Member] Senior debenture loan due two thousand and eighteen. Senior Debenture Loan Due 2018 Senior Debenture Loan Due Two Thousand And Eighteen [Member] Senior debenture loan due two thousand and twenty. Senior Debenture Loan Due 2020 Senior Debenture Loan Due Two Thousand And Twenty [Member] Senior debenture loan due two thousand and twenty two. Senior Debenture Loan Due 2022 Senior Debenture Loan Due Two Thousand And Twenty Two [Member] Senior debenture loan due two thousand and twenty one. Senior Debenture Loan Due 2021 Senior Debenture Loan Due Two Thousand And Twenty One [Member] Other loans. Other Loans Other Loans [Member] Variable Rate Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate Variable Rate [Domain] Two point one five percentage libor based variable rate Two Point One Five Percentage Libor Based Variable Rate Two Point One Five Percentage Libor Based Variable Rate [Member] Two point four zero percentage libor based variable rate. Two Point Four Zero Percentage Libor Based Variable Rate Two Point Four Zero Percentage Libor Based Variable Rate [Member] Total long-term debt, Carrying Amount Long Term Debt Capital lease and other financing obligations, Carrying Amount Capital Lease Obligations Total debt and other financing arrangements, Carrying Amount Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Less: Current portion of long-term debt, capital lease and other financing obligations and other short-term borrowings Total long-term debt, Fair Value Long Term Debt Fair Value Debt instrument maturity year. Senior secured term loan facility due two thousand sixteen Euro LIBOR based variable rate. Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due Two Thousand Sixteen Euro L I B O R Based Variable Rate Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due Two Thousand Sixteen Euro L I B O R Based Variable Rate [Member] Senior secured term loan facility due two thousand twenty one euro libor based variable rate Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due Two Thousand Twenty One Euro Libor Based Variable Rate Senior Secured Term Loan Facility Due Two Thousand Twenty One Euro Libor Based Variable Rate [Member] Senior secured revolving credit facility due two thousand and nineteen. Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility Due 2019 Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility Due Two Thousand And Nineteen [Member] Debt instrument face value Debt Instrument Face Amount Debt instrument, variable rate Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate1 Debt instrument interest rate stated percentage Debt Instrument Interest Rate Stated Percentage Debt instrument, maturity year Debt Instrument Maturity Year Long term debt maturities repayments of principal thereafter. For July 1, 2014 to December 31, 2014 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Remainder Of Fiscal Year 2015 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal In Next Rolling Twelve Months 2016 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal In Rolling Year Two 2017 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal In Rolling Year Three 2018 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal In Rolling Year Four 2019 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal In Rolling Year Five Thereafter Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal Thereafter Total Amended debt instrument principal amount. Repayment of debt. Aggregate principal amount of senior secured notes. New classes term loan. New Classes Term Loan New Classes Term Loan [Member] Class d term loan. Class D Term Loans Class D Term Loan [Member] Class e term loan. Class E Term Loans Class E Term Loan [Member] Credit Facility Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility Credit Facility [Domain] Seven point seven five percentage senior notes due two thousand eighteen. 7.75% Senior Notes Due 2018 Seven Point Seven Five Percentage Senior Notes Due Two Thousand Eighteen [Member] Revolving credit commitments Revolving Credit Facility [Member] New revolving line of credit. New revolving credit commitments New Revolving Line Of Credit [Member] Senior secured credit agreement amended, principal amount Amended Debt Instrument Principal Amount Convertible Subordinated Bonds, Maturity date Debt Instrument Maturity Date Payment to redeem outstanding senior notes Repayment Of Debt Principal amount of notes issued Aggregate Principal Amount Of Senior Secured Notes Loss on Extinguishment of Debt Gains Losses On Extinguishment Of Debt Redemption price percentage of principal amount redeemed Debt Instrument Redemption Price Percentage Of Principal Amount Redeemed Long term debt repayments of principal in next twelve months percentage. Long term debt repayments of principal in year two percentage. Long term debt repayments of principal in year three percentage. Long term debt repayments of principal in year four percentage. Long term debt repayments of principal in year five percentage. Debt instrument quarterly principal repayment percentage. Base rate added to applicable margin of borrowings. Lender Name Line Of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender Line Of Credit Facility Lender [Domain] Class a term loan. Class A Term Loan Class A Term Loan [Member] Base rate loans. Base Rate Loans Base Rate Loans [Member] Euro currency rate loans. Eurocurrency Rate Loans Euro Currency Rate Loans [Member] Range Range [Axis] Range Range [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Original principal amount paid in first year Long Term Debt Repayments Of Principal In Next Twelve Months Percentage Original principal amount paid in second year Long Term Debt Repayments Of Principal In Year Two Percentage Original principal amount paid in third year Long Term Debt Repayments Of Principal In Year Three Percentage Original principal amount paid in fourth year Long Term Debt Repayments Of Principal In Year Four Percentage Original principal amount paid in fifth year Long Term Debt Repayments Of Principal In Year Five Percentage Original principal amount repaid Debt Instrument Quarterly Principal Repayment Percentage Margin under term loan facility Base Rate Added To Applicable Margin Of Borrowings Class B one term loan. Class B-1 Term Loans Class B One Term Loan [Member] Current applicable margins. Class B two term loan. Class B-2 Term Loans Class B Two Term Loan [Member] Applicable margin for senior secured term loans, base rate loans Current Applicable Margins Subsequent Event Type Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Stockholders' equity. Stockholders Equity [Table] Stockholders Equity [Table] Disclosure Stockholders Equity Common Stock Activity Detail [Line Items] Disclosure Stockholders Equity Common Stock Activity Detail [Line Items] Actual number of shares of common stock outstanding Common Stock Number Of Shares Par Value And Other Disclosures [Abstract] Beginning of period Shares of common stock issued through compensation plans Stock Issued During Period Shares Share Based Compensation Shares of common stock issued through business combinations Stock Issued During Period Shares Acquisitions Repurchases of common stock Stock Repurchased During Period Shares End of period Disclosure Stockholders Equity Additional Information Detail [Line Items] Disclosure Stockholders Equity Additional Information Detail [Line Items] Cumulative shares of treasury stock Treasury Stock Shares Cost of treasury stock Treasury Stock Value Dividends Payable [Table] Dividends Payable [Table] Dividends Dividends [Axis] Dividends Dividends [Domain] Installment one. Installment One Installment One [Member] Installment two. Installment Two Installment Two [Member] Installment three. Installment Three Installment Three [Member] Installment four. Installment Four Installment Four [Member] Installment five. Installment Five Installment Five [Member] Installment six. Installment Six Installment Six [Member] Dividends Payable [Line Items] Dividends Payable [Line Items] Declaration Date Dividends Payable Date Declared Day Month And Year Record Date Dividends Payable Date Of Record Day Month And Year Payment Date Dividend Payable Date To Be Paid Day Month And Year Authorized shares under repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program Authorized Amount Cumulative shares repurchased Treasury Stock Shares Acquired Average price of common stock purchased Treasury Stock Acquired Average Cost Per Share Total consideration of stock repurchase program Number of shares repurchased. Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Total Number of Shares Purchased Number Of Shares Repurchased Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Dollar Value of Shares that may yet be Purchased under the Plans or Programs Stock Repurchase Program Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Commitment And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitment And Contingencies [Table] Income Tax [Table] Income Tax [Table] Income Tax [Line Items] Income Tax [Line Items] Effective tax rates Effective Income Tax Rate Continuing Operations Scenario, Forecast Scenario Forecast [Member] Liabilities for unrecognized income tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Table] Schedule Of Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Table] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Business segment income loss. Consolidation Items Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items Consolidation Items [Domain] Corporate, Non-Segment Corporate Non Segment [Member] Corporate Corporate [Member] Other items Other Cost And Expense Operating Operating income/(loss) Business segment income/(loss) Business Segment Income Loss Total assets Written down of uninsured deposits. Write down of uninsured deposits Written Down Of Uninsured Deposits