SERVICENOW, INC., 10-K filed on 2/12/2021
Annual Report
v3.20.4
Cover - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Jan. 31, 2021
Jun. 30, 2020
Cover [Abstract]      
Document Type 10-K    
Document Annual Report true    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2020    
Document Transition Report false    
Entity File Number 001-35580    
Entity Registrant Name SERVICENOW, INC.    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Tax Identification Number 20-2056195    
Entity Address, Address Line One 2225 Lawson Lane    
Entity Address, City or Town Santa Clara    
Entity Address, State or Province CA    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 95054    
City Area Code 408    
Local Phone Number 501-8550    
Title of 12(b) Security Common stock, par value $0.001 per share    
Trading Symbol NOW    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Small Business false    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Entity Shell Company false    
Entity Public Float     $ 57.8
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   196.1  
Documents Incorporated by Reference Portions of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement for its 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (Proxy Statement) to be filed within 120 days of the Registrant’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, are incorporated by reference in Part III of this Report on Form 10-K. Except with respect to information specifically incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K, the Proxy Statement is not deemed to be filed as part of this Form 10-K.    
Entity Central Index Key 0001373715    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2020    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
v3.20.4
Description of the Business
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Description of the Business Description of the Business ServiceNow’s purpose is to make the world of work, work better for people. We believe that people want the technology they use in their work to be more efficient and easier to use. We build applications to meet that demand by automating existing processes and creating efficient, digitized workflows with a consumer grade user experience. Our products and services enable the steps of a job to flow naturally across disparate departments, systems and processes of a business. ServiceNow delivers digital workflows on a single enterprise cloud platform called the Now Platform®. Our product portfolio is currently focused on providing Information Technology (“IT”), Employee and Customer workflows in standardized product offerings. We also enable our customers to design and build their own custom workflow applications using our Creator workflows, formerly called the Now Platform App Engine, and to integrate those applications with third party systems through our Integration Hub.
v3.20.4
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]  
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Accrued payroll$371,861 $230,682 
Taxes payable58,466 38,326 
Other employee related liabilities91,654 74,853 
Other146,112 117,542 
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities$668,093 $461,403 
v3.20.4
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,676,794 $ 775,778
Short-term investments 1,415,242 915,317
Accounts receivable, net 1,009,415 835,279
Current portion of deferred commissions 228,924 175,039
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 191,467 125,488
Total current assets 4,521,842 2,826,901
Deferred commissions, less current portion 444,068 333,448
Long-term investments 1,468,006 1,013,332
Property and equipment, net 659,641 468,085
Operating lease right-of-use assets 454,218 402,428
Intangible assets, net 153,367 143,850
Goodwill 240,764 156,756
Deferred tax assets 673,111 599,633
Other assets 100,040 77,997
Total assets 8,715,057 6,022,430
Current liabilities:    
Accounts payable 34,236 52,960
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 668,093 461,403
Current portion of deferred revenue 2,962,579 2,185,754
Current portion of operating lease liabilities 72,236 52,668
Total current liabilities 3,737,144 2,752,785
Deferred revenue, less current portion 45,346 40,038
Operating lease liabilities, less current portion 422,779 383,221
Long-term debt 1,640,153 694,981
Other long-term liabilities 35,154 23,464
Total liabilities 5,880,576 3,894,489
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders’ equity:    
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding 0 0
Common stock $0.001 par value; 600,000 shares authorized; 195,844 and 189,461 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively 196 189
Additional paid-in capital 2,973,797 2,454,741
Accumulated other comprehensive income 94,229 25,255
Accumulated deficit (233,741) (352,244)
Total stockholders’ equity 2,834,481 2,127,941
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 8,715,057 $ 6,022,430
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 600,000,000.0 600,000,000
v3.20.4
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]    
Preferred stock , par value (in USD per share) $ 0.001 $ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) 10,000,000 10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) 0 0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0 0
Common stock, par value (in USD per share) $ 0.001 $ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 600,000,000.0 600,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued (in shares) 195,844,000 189,461,000
Common stock, shares, outstanding (in shares) 195,844,000 189,461,000
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Revenues:      
Total revenues $ 4,519,484 $ 3,460,437 $ 2,608,816
Cost of revenues:      
Total cost of revenues [1] 987,113 796,645 622,658
Gross profit [1] 3,532,371 2,663,792 1,986,158
Operating expenses:      
Sales and marketing [1] 1,855,016 1,534,284 1,203,056
Research and development [1] 1,024,327 748,369 529,501
General and administrative [1] 454,165 339,016 296,027
Total operating expenses [1] 3,333,508 2,621,669 2,028,584
Income (loss) from operations 198,863 42,123 (42,426)
Interest expense (32,746) (33,283) (52,733)
Interest income and other, net (16,932) 58,345 56,135
Income (loss) before income taxes 149,185 67,185 (39,024)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes 30,682 (559,513) (12,320)
Net income (loss) $ 118,503 $ 626,698 $ (26,704)
Net income (loss) per share - basic (in USD per share) $ 0.61 $ 3.36 $ (0.15)
Net income (loss) per share - diluted (in USD per share) $ 0.59 $ 3.18 $ (0.15)
Weighted-average shares used to compute net income (loss) per share - basic (in shares) 193,096 186,466 177,846
Weighted-average shares used to compute net income (loss) per share - diluted (in shares) 202,478 197,223 177,846
Other comprehensive income (loss):      
Foreign currency translation adjustments $ 66,243 $ 20,539 $ (1,903)
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, net of tax 2,731 8,751 (665)
Other comprehensive income (loss) 68,974 29,290 (2,568)
Comprehensive income (loss) 187,477 655,988 (29,272)
Subscription      
Revenues:      
Total revenues 4,285,797 3,255,079 2,421,313
Cost of revenues:      
Total cost of revenues [1] 730,835 549,642 417,421
Professional services and other      
Revenues:      
Total revenues 233,687 205,358 187,503
Cost of revenues:      
Total cost of revenues [1] $ 256,278 $ 247,003 $ 205,237
[1] Includes stock-based compensation as follows:
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Cost of revenues:
Subscription$98,258 $72,728 $48,738 
Professional services and other51,553 43,123 32,816 
Sales and marketing320,328 268,408 228,045 
Research and development282,244 194,821 135,203 
General and administrative118,070 83,115 99,151 
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Stock-based compensation $ 870,453 $ 662,195 $ 543,953
Sales and marketing      
Stock-based compensation 320,328 268,408 228,045
Research and development      
Stock-based compensation 282,244 194,821 135,203
General and administrative      
Stock-based compensation 118,070 83,115 99,151
Subscription | Cost of revenues      
Stock-based compensation 98,258 72,728 48,738
Professional services and other | Cost of revenues      
Stock-based compensation $ 51,553 $ 43,123 $ 32,816
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
Total
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Common Stock
Additional Paid-in Capital
Accumulated Deficit
Accumulated Deficit
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Cumulative Effect, Period of Adoption, Adjustment
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption $ 778,744   $ 174 $ 1,731,367 $ (958,564)   $ 5,767  
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption | Accounting Standards Update 2016-01           $ 7,234   $ (7,234)
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption | Accounting Standards Update 2016-16   $ (746)       (746)    
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017     174,276          
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2017 778,744   $ 174 1,731,367 (958,564)   5,767  
Beginning balance (Accounting Standards Update 2016-01) at Dec. 31, 2017           7,234   (7,234)
Beginning balance (Accounting Standards Update 2016-16) at Dec. 31, 2017   (746)       (746)    
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption 1,111,199 (162) $ 180 2,093,834 (978,780) (162) (4,035)  
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption | Accounting Standards Update 2016-01           7,234   $ (7,234)
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption | Accounting Standards Update 2016-16   (746)       (746)    
Common stock issued under employee stock plans (in shares)     5,899          
Common stock issued under employee stock plans 104,173   $ 6 104,167        
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (281,061)     (281,061)        
Stock-based compensation 545,805     545,805        
Settlement of Notes conversion feature (in shares)     1,314          
Settlement of Notes conversion feature (773,301)   $ 1 (773,302)        
Benefit from exercise of Note Hedge (in shares)     (1,314)          
Benefit from exercise of Note Hedge 766,857   $ (1) 766,858        
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax (2,568)           (2,568)  
Net income (loss) (26,704)       (26,704)      
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018     180,175          
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2018 $ 1,111,199 (162) $ 180 2,093,834 (978,780) (162) (4,035)  
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Accounting Standards Update [Extensible List] us-gaap:AccountingStandardsUpdate201602Member              
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption $ 1,111,199 (162) 180 2,093,834 (978,780) (162) (4,035)  
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption 2,127,941 $ (162) $ 189 2,454,741 (352,244) $ (162) 25,255  
Common stock issued under employee stock plans (in shares)     5,003          
Common stock issued under employee stock plans 107,909   $ 4 107,905        
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (409,703)     (409,703)        
Stock-based compensation 662,710     662,710        
Settlement of Warrants (in shares)     4,283          
Settlement of Warrants     $ 5 (5)        
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 29,290           29,290  
Net income (loss) 626,698       626,698      
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019     189,461          
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2019 2,127,941   $ 189 2,454,741 (352,244)   25,255  
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption 2,127,941   189 2,454,741 (352,244)   25,255  
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption 2,127,941   $ 196 2,973,797 (233,741)   94,229  
Common stock issued under employee stock plans (in shares)     4,098          
Common stock issued under employee stock plans 151,627   $ 4 151,623        
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (508,600)     (508,600)        
Stock-based compensation 873,816     873,816        
Settlement of Warrants (in shares)     2,285          
Settlement of Warrants 1   $ 3 (2)        
Settlement of Notes conversion feature (1,376,765)     (1,376,765)        
Benefit from exercise of Note Hedge 1,378,984     1,378,984        
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 68,974           68,974  
Net income (loss) 118,503       118,503      
Ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020     195,844          
Ending balance at Dec. 31, 2020 2,834,481   $ 196 2,973,797 (233,741)   94,229  
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Cumulative effect adjustment for ASU adoption $ 2,834,481   $ 196 $ 2,973,797 $ (233,741)   $ 94,229  
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income (loss) $ 118,503 $ 626,698 $ (26,704)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization 336,381 252,114 149,604
Amortization of deferred commissions 217,631 168,014 143,358
Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs 24,478 33,283 52,733
Stock-based compensation 870,453 662,195 543,953
Deferred income taxes (24,481) (575,765) (34,180)
Repayments of convertible senior notes attributable to debt discount (81,958) 0 (145,349)
Loss on extinguishment of debt 46,611 0 0
Other (2,493) (8,921) (13,080)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of business combinations:      
Accounts receivable (151,431) (259,835) (146,148)
Deferred commissions (365,264) (255,605) (239,382)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (54,203) (29,907) (19,886)
Accounts payable (33,583) 21,355 (4,757)
Deferred revenue 710,998 537,249 468,856
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 174,957 65,097 82,071
Net cash provided by operating activities 1,786,599 1,235,972 811,089
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Purchases of property and equipment (419,327) (264,892) (224,462)
Business combinations, net of cash acquired (107,236) (7,414) (37,440)
Purchases of intangibles (13,190) (72,689) (24,400)
Purchases of investments (2,933,876) (1,595,667) (1,295,782)
Sales and maturities of investments 1,965,429 1,192,750 1,234,662
Realized gains on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments, net 1,328 23,435 0
Net cash used in investing activities (1,506,872) (724,477) (347,422)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Net proceeds from borrowings on 2030 Notes 1,481,633 0 0
Repayments of convertible senior notes attributable to principal (1,627,690) (9) (429,645)
Net proceeds from unwind of 2022 Note Hedge 1,105,542 0 0
Proceeds from employee stock plans 145,766 107,868 104,160
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (508,604) (409,715) (281,010)
Payments on financing obligations 0 0 (933)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 596,647 (301,856) (607,428)
Foreign currency effect on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 25,065 (186) (15,530)
Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 901,439 209,453 (159,291)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period 777,991 568,538 727,829
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period 1,679,430 777,991 568,538
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period:      
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the consolidated statement of cash flows 777,991 568,538 568,538
Supplemental disclosures of other cash flow information:      
Income taxes paid, net of refunds 39,212 20,471 17,507
Non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Property and equipment included in accounts payable and accrued expenses 34,839 56,966 25,767
Purchase of intangible assets included in accrued expenses and other liabilities 0 0 8,500
2022 Note Hedge      
Non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Benefit from exercise of 2018 Note Hedge 273,442 0 0
2018 Note Hedge      
Non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Benefit from exercise of 2018 Note Hedge 0 0 766,858
2022 Notes      
Non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Settlement of 2018 Notes conversion feature 275,273 0 0
2018 Notes      
Non-cash investing and financing activities:      
Settlement of 2018 Notes conversion feature $ 0 $ 0 $ 773,302
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), and include our accounts and the accounts of our wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated upon consolidation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Such management estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, standalone selling price (“SSP”) for each distinct performance obligation included in customer contracts with multiple performance obligations, the period of benefit for deferred commissions, valuation of intangible assets, the useful life of property and equipment and identifiable intangible assets, stock-based compensation expense and income taxes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the estimates and assumptions and determined there was no material impact.

Segments
 
Our chief operating decision maker allocates resources and assesses financial performance based upon discrete financial information at the consolidated level. There are no segment managers who are held accountable by the chief operating decision maker, or anyone else, for operations, operating results and planning for levels or components below the consolidated unit level. Accordingly, we have determined that we operate as a single operating and reportable segment.
 
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
 
The functional currencies for our foreign subsidiaries are primarily their local currencies. Assets and liabilities of the wholly-owned foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. Dollars at exchange rates in effect at each period end. Amounts classified in stockholders’ equity are translated at historical exchange rates. Revenues and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a component of stockholders’ equity. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in other income (expense), net within the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), and have not been material for all periods presented.

Revenue Recognition

Revenues are recognized when control of services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those services.
Subscription revenues

Subscription revenues are primarily comprised of subscription fees that give customers access to the ordered subscription service, related support and updates, if any, to the subscribed service during the subscription term. We recognize subscription revenues ratably over the contract term beginning on the commencement date of each contract, which is the date we make our services available to our customers. Our contracts with customers typically include a fixed amount of consideration and are generally non-cancelable and without any refund-type provisions. We typically invoice our customers annually in advance for our subscription services upon execution of the initial contract or subsequent renewal, and our invoices are typically due within 30 days from the invoice date.

Subscription revenues also include revenues from self-hosted offerings in which customers deploy, or we grant customers the option to deploy without significant penalty, our subscription service internally or contract with a third party to host the software. For these contracts, we account for the software element separately from the related support and updates as they are distinct performance obligations. Refer to the discussion below related to contracts with multiple performance obligations for further details. The transaction price is allocated to separate performance obligations on a relative SSP basis. The transaction price allocated to the software element is recognized when transfer of control of the software to the customer is complete. The transaction price allocated to the related support and updates are recognized ratably over the contract term.

Professional services and other revenues

Our professional services arrangements are primarily on a time-and-materials basis, and we generally invoice our customers monthly in arrears for these professional services based on actual hours and expenses incurred. Some of our professional services arrangements are on a fixed fee or subscription basis. Professional services revenues are recognized as services are delivered. Other revenues consist of fees from customer training delivered on-site or through publicly available classes. Typical payment terms require our customers to pay us within 30 days of invoice.

Contracts with multiple performance obligations

We enter into contracts that can include various combinations of products and services, which are generally capable of being distinct and accounted for as separate performance obligations. We evaluate the terms and conditions included within our customer contracts to ensure appropriate revenue recognition, including whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately versus together. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, the transaction price is allocated to the separate performance obligations on a relative SSP basis. We determine SSP by considering the historical selling price of these performance obligations in similar transactions as well as other factors, including, but not limited to, competitive pricing of similar products, other software vendor pricing, industry publications and current pricing practices.

Contract balances

Unbilled receivables represent subscription revenues that are recognized upon delivery of the software prior to being invoiced. Unbilled receivables are primarily presented under prepaid expenses and other current assets on our consolidated balance sheets.

Deferred revenue consists primarily of payments received related to unsatisfied performance obligations at the end of the period. Once our services are available to customers, we record amounts due in accounts receivable and in deferred revenue. To the extent we bill customers in advance of the billing period commencement date, the accounts receivable and corresponding deferred revenue amounts are netted to zero on our consolidated balance sheets, unless such amounts have been paid as of the balance sheet date.

Customer deposits primarily relate to payments received from customers which could be refundable pursuant to the terms of the contract and are presented under accrued expenses and other current liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets.
Deferred Commissions

Deferred commissions are the incremental selling costs that are associated with acquiring customer contracts and consist primarily of sales commissions paid to our sales organization and referral fees paid to independent third-parties. Deferred commissions also include the associated payroll taxes and fringe benefit costs associated with payments to our sales employees to the extent they are incremental. Commissions and referral fees earned upon the execution of initial and expansion contracts are primarily deferred and amortized over a period of benefit that we have determined to be five years. Commissions earned upon the renewal of customer contracts are deferred and amortized over the average renewal term. Additionally, for self-hosted offerings, consistent with the recognition of subscription revenue for self-hosted offerings, a portion of the commission cost is expensed upfront when the self-hosted offering is made available. We determine the period of benefit by taking into consideration our customer contracts, our technology life cycle and other factors. We include amortization of deferred commissions in sales and marketing expense in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). There was no impairment loss in relation to the incremental selling costs capitalized for all periods presented.

Fair Value Measurements
 
Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We use a fair value hierarchy that is based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
 
Level 1—Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2—Other inputs that are directly or indirectly observable in the marketplace; and
Level 3— Significant unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity.
 
Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with original or remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at fair value.
 
Accounts Receivable, net

We record trade accounts receivable at the net invoice value and such receivables are non-interest bearing. We consider receivables past due based on the contractual payment terms. We reserve for specific amounts if collectability is no longer reasonably assured based on assessment of various factors including historical loss rates and expectations of forward-looking loss estimates. Individual accounts receivable are written off when we become aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligation, and all collection efforts are exhausted.

Investments
 
Investments consist of commercial paper, corporate notes and bonds, certificates of deposit and U.S. government and agency securities. We classify investments as available-for-sale at the time of purchase. All investments are recorded at estimated fair value and investments with original maturities of less than one year at time of purchase is classified as short-term. Unrealized gains and losses are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, a component of stockholders’ equity, except for credit-related impairment losses for available-for-sale debt securities.

We evaluate investments with unrealized loss positions for other than temporary impairment by assessing if they are related to deterioration in credit risk and whether we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, our intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the securities before the recovery of their cost basis. Credit-related impairment losses, not to exceed the amount that fair value is less than the amortized cost basis, are recognized through an allowance for credit losses with changes in the allowance for credit losses recorded in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). For purposes of identifying and measuring impairment, the policy election was made to exclude the applicable accrued interest from both the fair value and amortized cost basis. Applicable accrued interest, net of the allowance for credit losses (if any) of $13 million and $11 million, is recorded in prepaid expenses and other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Realized gains and losses and declines in value judged to be other than temporary are determined based on the specific identification method and are reported in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
Strategic investments

Strategic investments consist of debt and non-marketable equity investments in privately-held companies in which we do not have a controlling interest or significant influence. Debt investments in privately-held companies are classified as available-for-sale and are recorded at their estimated fair value with changes in fair value recorded through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). We have elected to apply the measurement alternative for equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values, measuring them at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus adjustments resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. An impairment loss is recorded when event or circumstance indicates a decline in value has occurred. We include these strategic investments in other assets on our consolidated balance sheets.
 
Derivative Financial Instruments

We use derivative financial instruments, mainly forward contracts with maturities of 12 months or less, to manage foreign currency risks. These derivative contracts are not designated as hedging instruments and changes in the fair value are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains (losses) from settlement of the derivative assets and liabilities are classified as investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Property and Equipment, net
 
Property and equipment are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Building39 years
Computer equipment and software  
3-5 years
Furniture and fixtures  
3-7 years
Leasehold and other improvements  shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life

Capitalized Software Development Costs
 
Software development costs for software to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed are expensed as incurred until the establishment of technological feasibility, at which time those costs are capitalized until the product is available for general release to customers and amortized over the estimated life of the product. Costs and time incurred between the establishment of technological feasibility and product release have not been material, and all software development costs have been charged to research and development expense in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

Costs incurred to develop our internal administration, finance and accounting systems are capitalized during the application development stage and generally amortized over the software’s estimated useful life of three to five years. Costs related to preliminary project activities and post implementation activities are expensed as incurred.
 
Leases
 
We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at inception. Operating lease right-of-use assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Lease payments consist primarily of the fixed payments under the arrangement, less any lease incentives. We generally use an incremental borrowing rate estimated based on the information available at the lease commencement date to determine the present value of lease payments, unless the implicit rate is readily determinable. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

We account for lease and non-lease components as a single lease component for office leases. Lease and non-lease components for all other leases are generally accounted for separately. Additionally, we do not record leases on the balance sheet that, at the lease commencement date, have a lease term of 12 months or less.

Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use assets, current portion of operating lease liabilities, and operating lease liabilities, less current portion in our consolidated balance sheets. We did not have any material financing leases in any of the periods presented.
Business Combinations

We allocate the acquisition purchase price to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of these assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Allocation of the purchase price requires significant estimates in determining the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities, especially with respect to intangible assets. Critical estimates include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows, discount rates, the time and expense to recreate the assets and profit margin a market participant would receive. These estimates are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill is evaluated for impairment at least annually or more frequently if circumstances indicate that goodwill may not be recoverable. We changed the timing of our annual assessment from fourth quarter to third quarter and did not consider this change to be material. We believe the change in timing is preferable as it better aligns with the Company’s closing processes. This change did not delay, accelerate or avoid any impairment charge. A qualitative assessment is performed to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the reporting unit does not pass the qualitative assessment, the carrying amount of the reporting unit, including goodwill, is compared to fair value and goodwill is considered impaired if the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value. Any excess is recognized as an impairment loss.

Intangible assets consist of developed technologies and other intangible assets, including patents and contractual agreements. Intangible assets are amortized over the period of estimated benefit using the straight-line method and estimated useful lives ranging from four to eleven years.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We evaluate long-lived assets, including purchased intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is measured by comparing the carrying amount to the future undiscounted cash flows we expect the asset to generate. Any excess of the carrying value of the asset above its fair value is recognized as an impairment loss.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs, excluding costs related to our annual Knowledge user conference and other user forums, are expensed as incurred and are included in sales and marketing expense. These costs for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 were $172 million, $115 million and $65 million, respectively.

Stock-based Compensation
 
We recognize compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock units (“RSUs”) with only service conditions on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. For stock options and RSUs with both service and performance or market conditions (performance-based RSUs (“PRSUs”)), expenses are recognized on a graded vesting basis over the requisite service period and for awards with performance conditions, when it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved. We recognize compensation expense related to shares issued pursuant to the employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”) on a straight-line basis over the six-month offering period. We recognize compensation expense net of estimated forfeiture activity. Amounts withheld related to the minimum statutory tax withholding requirements paid by us on behalf of our employees are recorded as a liability and a reduction to additional paid-in capital when paid, and are included as a reduction of cash flows from financing activities.

We estimate the fair value of stock options with only service conditions and shares issued pursuant to the ESPP using the Black-Scholes options pricing model and the fair value of RSU awards (including PRSUs) using the fair value of our common stock on the date of grant. For stock options with both service and market conditions, we estimate the fair value of the options granted and the corresponding derived service periods using the Monte Carlo simulation, which requires the use of various assumptions, including the stock price volatility and risk-free interest rate as of the valuation date corresponding to the length of time remaining in the performance period and expected dividend yield.

 
Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers
 
Financial instruments potentially exposing us to credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, derivative contracts, investments and accounts receivable. We hold cash at financial institutions that management believes are high credit, quality financial institutions and invest in investment-grade debt securities. Our derivative contracts expose us to credit risk to the extent that the counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the arrangement. We mitigate this credit risk by transacting with major financial institutions with high credit ratings and entering into master netting arrangements, which permit net settlement of transactions with the same counterparty. We are not required to pledge, and are not entitled to receive, cash collateral related to these derivative instruments. We are also exposed to credit risk under the convertible note hedge transactions that may result from counterparties’ non-performance.
 
Credit risk arising from accounts receivable is mitigated to a certain extent due to our large number of customers and their dispersion across various industries and geographies. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, there were no customers that represented more than 10% of our accounts receivable balance. There were no customers that individually exceeded 10% of our total revenues in any of the periods presented. For purposes of assessing concentration of credit risk and significant customers, a group of customers under common control or customers that are affiliates of each other are regarded as a single customer.
 
The following table presents the changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands):
Balance at Beginning of YearAdditions: Charged to OperationsAdditions: Charged to Deferred RevenueLess:
Write-offs		Balance at End of Year
Year ended December 31, 2020
Allowance for doubtful accounts$6,196 2,544 1,382 1,514 $8,608 
Year ended December 31, 2019
Allowance for doubtful accounts$4,649 1,284 1,306 1,043 $6,196 
Year ended December 31, 2018
Allowance for doubtful accounts$3,115 1,255 1,177 898 $4,649 

Income Taxes 

We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes, in which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be reversed. We recognize the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates within the provision for income taxes as income and expense in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is established if it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In determining the need for a valuation allowance, we consider future growth, forecasted earnings, future taxable income, the mix of earnings in the jurisdictions in which we operate, historical earnings, taxable income in prior years, if carryback is permitted under the law, carryforward periods and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.

Our tax positions are subject to income tax audits by multiple tax jurisdictions throughout the world. We recognize the tax benefit of an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not the position is sustainable upon examination by the taxing authority, based on the technical merits. We measure the tax benefit recognized as the largest amount of benefit which is more likely than not to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority. We recognize interest accrued and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in our tax provision.

We calculate the current and deferred income tax provision based on estimates and assumptions that could differ from the actual results reflected in income tax returns filed in subsequent years and record adjustments based on filed income tax returns when identified. The amount of income taxes paid is subject to examination by U.S. federal, state and foreign tax authorities. The estimate of the potential outcome of any uncertain tax issue is subject to management’s assessment of relevant risks, facts and circumstances existing at that time. To the extent the assessment of such tax position changes, we record the change in estimate in the period in which we make the determination.
Prior Period Reclassifications

Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications did not result in a restatement of prior period financial statements. 

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Pronouncements Adopted in 2020

Cloud computing arrangements implementation costs

In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-15, “Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract,” which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. The new standard requires capitalized costs to be amortized on a straight-line basis generally over the term of the arrangement, and the financial statement presentation for these capitalized costs would be the same as that of the fees related to the hosting arrangements. We adopted this standard on a prospective basis as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Credit losses

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which requires a financial asset measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected, with further clarifications made more recently regarding the treatment of accrued interest, transfers between classifications for loans and debt securities, recoveries and the option to irrevocably elect the fair value option (on an instrument-by-instrument basis) for eligible financial assets at amortized costs. For trade receivables, loans, and other financial assets, we will be required to use a forward-looking expected loss model rather than the incurred loss model for recognizing credit losses which reflects losses that are probable. Credit losses relating to available-for-sale debt securities are required to be recorded through an allowance for credit losses rather than as a reduction in the amortized cost basis of the securities. We adopted ASU 2016-13 on a modified retrospective basis as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not result in any cumulative effect adjustment on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption as of January 1, 2020.

Accounting Pronouncement Adopted in 2019

Leases

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (“Topic 842”),” which requires lessees to generally recognize on the balance sheet operating and financing lease liabilities and corresponding right-of-use assets, and to recognize on the income statement the expenses in a manner similar to prior practice. We adopted Topic 842 using the modified retrospective method as of January 1, 2019 with an immaterial amount of cumulative effect adjustment recorded to our accumulated deficit as of January 1, 2019 and elected not to restate the comparative periods in our financial statements in the year of adoption. We also elected the package of transition expedients available for expired or existing contracts, which allowed us to carryforward our historical assessment of (1) whether contracts are or contain leases, (2) lease classification and (3) initial direct costs. The adoption of this standard did not impact our previously reported consolidated financial statements for periods ended on or prior to December 31, 2018. Upon adoption, we recorded operating lease right-of-use assets of approximately $335 million and corresponding operating lease liabilities of $363 million on our consolidated balance sheets.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption

Debt with Conversion Options

In August 2020, the FASB issued new guidance to simplify the accounting for certain financial instruments with characteristics of liabilities and equity, including convertible instruments and contracts on an entity’s own equity. The standard eliminates beneficial conversion feature and cash conversion models resulting in more convertible instruments being accounted for as a single unit; and simplifies classification of debt on the balance sheet and earnings per share calculation. This new standard is effective for our interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2022 and earlier adoption is permitted. Amendments within this standard are required to be applied on a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

Income taxes

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, “Income Taxes (“Topic 740”): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes,” which simplifies the accounting for incomes taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 and amending existing guidance to improve consistent application. This new standard is effective for our interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2021 and earlier adoption is permitted. Most amendments within this standard are required to be applied on a prospective basis, while certain amendments must be applied on a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. We do not anticipate that the adoption of this standard will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
v3.20.4
Investments
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract]  
Investments Investments
Marketable Debt Securities

The following is a summary of our available-for-sale debt securities recorded within short-term and long-term investments on the consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):
 December 31, 2020
Amortized
Cost		Gross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value
Available-for-sale securities:
Commercial paper$405,429 $79 $(13)$405,495 
Corporate notes and bonds2,298,306 10,478 (298)2,308,486 
Certificates of deposit23,081 8 — 23,089 
U.S. government and agency securities145,243 942 (7)146,178 
Total available-for-sale securities$2,872,059 $11,507 $(318)$2,883,248 
December 31, 2019
Amortized
Cost		Gross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value
Available-for-sale securities:
Commercial paper$101,416 $83 $(9)$101,490 
Corporate notes and bonds1,654,166 7,360 (196)1,661,330 
Certificates of deposit38,007 38 — 38,045 
U.S. government and agency securities127,544 254 (14)127,784 
Total available-for-sale securities$1,921,133 $7,735 $(219)$1,928,649 
As of December 31, 2020, the contractual maturities of our available-for-sale debt securities, excluding those securities classified within cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheet, did not exceed 36 months. The fair values of available-for-sale securities, by remaining contractual maturity, are as follows (in thousands):
December 31, 2020
Due within 1 year$1,415,242 
Due in 1 year through 5 years1,468,006 
Total$2,883,248 

The following table shows the fair values and the gross unrealized losses of these available-for-sale debt securities, classified by the length of time that the securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, and aggregated by investment types, excluding those securities classified within cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets (in thousands): 
 December 31, 2020
Less than 12 Months12 Months or GreaterTotal
 Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
Commercial paper$94,980 $(13)$— $— $94,980 $(13)
Corporate notes and bonds534,126 (298)— — 534,126 (298)
U.S. government and agency securities7,985 (7)— — 7,985 (7)
Total$637,091 $(318)$— $— $637,091 $(318)
December 31, 2019
Less than 12 Months12 Months or GreaterTotal
Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
Commercial paper$20,752 $(9)$— $— $20,752 $(9)
Corporate notes and bonds242,012 (181)16,264 (15)258,276 (196)
U.S. government and agency securities17,806 (14)— — 17,806 (14)
Total$280,570 $(204)$16,264 $(15)$296,834 $(219)
 
The decline in fair value below amortized cost basis was not considered other than temporary as it is more likely than not we will hold the securities until maturity or a recovery of the cost basis, and credit-related impairment losses were not deemed material as of December 31, 2020.

Strategic Investments

As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, the total amount of equity investments in privately-held companies included in other assets on our consolidated balance sheets was $28 million and $22 million, respectively. We classify these assets as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy as only an impairment or observable adjustment is recognized based on observable transaction price at the transaction date of identical or similar investment of the same issuer and other unobservable inputs such as volatility.
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurements
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements
The following table presents our fair value hierarchy for our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2020 (in thousands): 
Level 1Level 2Total
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds$1,305,372 $— $1,305,372 
U.S. government and agency securities— 2,000 2,000 
Marketable securities:
Commercial paper— 405,495 405,495 
Corporate notes and bonds— 2,308,486 2,308,486 
Certificates of deposit— 23,089 23,089 
U.S. government and agency securities— 146,178 146,178 
Total$1,305,372 $2,885,248 $4,190,620 

The following table presents our fair value hierarchy for our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2019 (in thousands): 
Level 1Level 2Total
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds$486,982 $— $486,982 
Commercial paper— 86,388 86,388 
Marketable securities:
Commercial paper— 101,490 101,490 
Corporate notes and bonds— 1,661,330 1,661,330 
Certificates of deposit— 38,045 38,045 
U.S. government and agency securities— 127,784 127,784 
Total$486,982 $2,015,037 $2,502,019 

We determine the fair value of our security holdings based on pricing from our service providers and market prices from industry-standard independent data providers. Such market prices may be quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1 inputs) or pricing determined using inputs other than quoted prices that are observable either directly or indirectly (Level 2 inputs), such as yield curve, volatility factors, credit spreads, default rates, loss severity, current market and contractual prices for the underlying instruments or debt, broker and dealer quotes, as well as other relevant economic measures.

Our equity investments in privately-held companies are not included in the table above and are discussed in Note 3. See Note 8 for the fair value measurement of our derivative contracts and Note 11 for the fair value measurement of our long-term debt, which are also not included in the table above.
v3.20.4
Business Combinations
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Business Combinations [Abstract]  
Business Combinations Business Combinations
2020 Business Combinations

On July 1, 2020, we acquired Sweagle NV for $25 million in an all-cash transaction to extend our DevOps and IT operations management (“ITOM”) capabilities. The purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair value to intangible assets of $8 million comprised mainly of developed technology of $7 million, deferred tax liabilities of $2 million, and goodwill of $19 million.

On February 7, 2020, we acquired Rupert Labs, Inc. d/b/a Passage AI for $33 million in an all-cash transaction to advance our deep learning of conversational artificial intelligence (“AI”) capabilities. The purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair value to developed technology intangible assets of $22 million, deferred tax liabilities of $5 million and $15 million of goodwill.

On February 6, 2020, we acquired Loom Systems Ltd. for $58 million in an all-cash transaction to extend our AI capabilities for ITOM by providing customers with analytics solutions. The purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair value to developed technology intangible assets of $17 million, deferred tax liabilities of $4 million and goodwill of $40 million.

Developed technology intangible assets acquired during the year are amortized over a five-year estimated useful life and goodwill is not tax deductible for income tax purposes.

2019 Business Combination

During the year ended December 31, 2019, we completed a business combination for $8 million in cash in which we acquired certain intangible assets, including developed technology and customer arrangements.

2018 Business Combinations

During the year ended December 31, 2018, we completed four business combinations for an aggregate purchase price of $38 million in cash. The aggregate purchase price was allocated based on the estimated fair value to $14 million of developed technology intangible assets (to be amortized over a five-year estimated useful life) $2 million of deferred tax liabilities and $26 million of goodwill, of which $8 million of the goodwill is deductible for income tax purposes.

We believe the goodwill associated with these business combinations represents the synergies expected from expanded market opportunities when integrating the acquired developed technologies with our offerings.
Aggregate acquisition-related costs associated with our business combinations are not material for each of the years presented and are included in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss). The results of operations of these business combinations have been included in our consolidated financial statements from their respective dates of purchase. These business combinations did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements, and therefore historical and pro forma disclosures have not been presented.
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill balances are presented below (in thousands):
Carrying Amount
Balance as of December 31, 2018$148,845 
Goodwill acquired2,246 
Foreign currency translation adjustments5,665 
Balance as of December 31, 2019$156,756 
Goodwill acquired74,172 
Foreign currency translation adjustments9,836 
Balance as of December 31, 2020$240,764 
Intangible assets consist of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,December 31,
 20202019
Developed technology$226,290 $177,746 
Patents64,942 67,730 
Other3,616 3,594 
Intangible assets, gross294,848 249,070 
Less: accumulated amortization(141,481)(105,220)
Intangible assets, net$153,367 $143,850 

Apart from the business combinations described in Note 5, we acquired $7 million of developed technology and $7 million of patents with weighted-average useful life of approximately five and nine years, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2020 and $73 million comprising primarily of $61 million in developed technology and $11 million in patents with weighted-average useful life of five and eight years, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2019.

Amortization expense for intangible assets was approximately $46 million, $35 million and $25 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

The following table presents the estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets held at December 31, 2020 (in thousands):
Years Ending December 31,
2021$42,466 
202238,253 
202332,962 
202427,322 
20255,228 
Thereafter7,136 
Total future amortization expense$153,367 
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property and Equipment Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, net consists of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Computer equipment$974,319 $680,160 
Computer software71,688 59,511 
Leasehold and other improvements167,697 125,299 
Furniture and fixtures68,678 53,651 
Construction in progress9,257 6,830 
Property and equipment, gross1,291,639 925,451 
Less: Accumulated depreciation(631,998)(457,366)
Property and equipment, net$659,641 $468,085 

Construction in progress consists primarily of leasehold and other improvements and in-process software development costs. Depreciation expense was $225 million, $168 million and $123 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
v3.20.4
Derivative Contracts
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Derivative Contracts Derivative Contracts
As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, we had foreign currency forward contracts with total notional values of $583 million and $358 million, respectively, which are not designated as hedging instruments. Our foreign currency contracts are classified within Level 2 as the valuation inputs are based on quoted prices and market observable data of similar instruments in active markets, such as currency spot and forward rates. The fair value of these outstanding derivative contracts was as follows (in thousands):
 Consolidated Balance Sheet LocationDecember 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Derivative Assets:
Foreign currency derivative contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets$7,541 $2,237 
Derivative Liabilities
Foreign currency derivative contractsAccrued expenses and other current liabilities$9,879 $1,362 
v3.20.4
Deferred Revenue and Performance Obligations
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Deferred Revenue and Performance Obligations Deferred Revenue and Performance Obligations
Revenues recognized during the year ended December 31, 2020 from amounts included in deferred revenue as of December 31, 2019 were $2.1 billion. Revenues recognized during the year ended December 31, 2019 from amounts included in deferred revenue as of December 31, 2018 were $1.6 billion.

Remaining Performance Obligations

Transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations (“RPO”) represents contracted revenue that has not yet been recognized, which includes deferred revenue and non-cancelable amounts that will be invoiced and recognized as revenues in future periods. RPO excludes contracts that are billed in arrears, such as certain time and materials contracts, as we apply the “right to invoice” practical expedient under relevant accounting guidance.

As of December 31, 2020, the total non-cancelable RPO under our contracts with customers was $8.9 billion, and we expect to recognize revenues on approximately 49% of these RPO over the following 12 months, with the balance to be recognized thereafter.
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Convertible Notes Payable [Abstract]  
Long-Term Debt Long-Term Debt
The following table summarizes the carrying value of our outstanding debt (in thousands, except percentages):
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
2030 Notes2022 Notes2022 Notes
Long-term debt
Principal$1,500,000 $169,224 $782,491 
Less: debt issuance cost and debt discount, net of amortization(17,703)(11,368)(87,510)
Net carrying amount$1,482,297 $157,856 $694,981 
Effective interest rate of the liability component - 2022 Notes4.75%
Effective interest rate - 2030 Notes1.53%

The effective interest rates for the 2030 Notes and 2022 Notes include interest payable, amortization of debt issuance cost and amortization of debt discount, as applicable.

We consider the fair value of the 2030 Notes and 2022 Notes at December 31, 2020 to be a Level 2 measurement. The estimated fair value of the 2030 Notes and 2022 Notes at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 based on the closing trading price per $100 of the 2030 Notes and 2022 Notes were as follows (in thousands):
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
2022 Notes$687,049 $1,645,970 
2030 Notes$1,463,475 $— 

2030 Notes

In August 2020, we issued 1.40% fixed rate ten-year notes with an aggregate principal amount of $1.5 billion due on September 1, 2030 (the “2030 Notes”). The 2030 Notes were issued at 99.63% of principal and we incurred approximately $13 million for debt issuance costs. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on March 1 and September 1 of each year, beginning on March 1, 2021, and the entire outstanding principal amount is due at maturity on September 1, 2030. The 2030 Notes are unsecured obligations and the indentures governing the 2030 Notes contain customary events of default and covenants that, among others and subject to exceptions, restrict the Company’s ability to incur or guarantee debt secured by liens on specified assets or enter into sale and lease-back transactions with respect to specified properties.

2022 Notes

In May and June 2017, we issued an aggregate of $782.5 million of 0% convertible senior notes (the “2022 Notes”), which are due June 1, 2022 unless earlier converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. The 2022 Notes do not bear interest, and we cannot redeem the 2022 Notes prior to maturity. The 2022 Notes are unsecured obligations and do not contain any financial covenants or restrictions on the payments of dividends, the incurrence of indebtedness or the issuance or repurchase of securities by us or any of our subsidiaries. In accounting for the issuance of the 2022 Notes and the related transaction costs, we valued and bifurcated the conversion option from the host debt instrument, referred to as debt discount, and recorded the conversion option of $160 million in equity at issuance. The resulting debt discount and transactions costs allocated to the liability component are amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the term of the 2022 Notes.

Upon conversion of the 2022 Notes, we may choose to pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock upon settlement. We currently intend to settle the principal amount of the 2022 Notes with cash.
Convertible DateInitial Conversion Price per ShareInitial Conversion Rate per $1,000 Par ValueInitial Number of Shares
(in thousands)
2022 NotesFebruary 1, 2022$134.75 7.42 shares5,807 

Conversion of the 2022 Notes prior to the Convertible Date. At any time prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding February 1, 2022 (“Convertible Date”), holders of the 2022 Notes may convert their Notes at their option, only if one of the following conditions are met:

•during any calendar quarter (and only during such calendar quarter) if the last reported sale price of our common stock for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the conversion price on each applicable trading day (in each case, the “Conversion Condition”); or

•during the five-business day period after any five-consecutive trading day period, or the measurement period, in which the trading price per $1,000 principal amount of the 2022 Notes for each trading day of the measurement period was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of our common stock and the conversion rate on each such trading day; or

•upon the occurrence of specified corporate events.
For conversion requests received prior to maturity, the difference between the fair value and the amortized book value is recorded as a gain or loss on early note conversion.

Conversion of the 2022 Notes on or after the Convertible Date. On or after the Convertible Date, a holder may convert all or any portion of its 2022 Notes at any time prior to the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding maturity regardless of the foregoing conditions, and such conversions will settle upon maturity. Upon settlement, we will pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of our common stock or a combination of cash and shares of our common stock, at our election.

The conversion price of the 2022 Notes will be subject to adjustment in some events. Holders of the 2022 Notes who convert their 2022 Notes in connection with certain corporate events that constitute a “make-whole fundamental change” are, under certain circumstances, entitled to an increase in the conversion rate. Additionally, in the event of a corporate event that constitutes a “fundamental change,” holders of the 2022 Notes may require us to purchase with cash all or a portion of the 2022 Notes upon the occurrence of a fundamental change, at a purchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2022 Notes plus any accrued and unpaid special interest, if any.

The Conversion Condition for the 2022 Notes was met for all the quarters ended June 30, 2018 through December 31, 2020, except for the quarter ended December 31, 2018. Therefore, our 2022 Notes became convertible at the holders’ option beginning on July 1, 2018 and continue to be convertible through March 31, 2021, except for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 because the Conversion Condition for the 2022 Notes was not met for the quarter ended December 31, 2018.

During the year ended December 31, 2020, we paid cash to settle $116 million in principal of the 2022 Notes and the loss on the early note conversions was not material. As a result of the settlements, we also recorded a net reduction to additional paid-in capital, reflecting $275 million fair value adjustments to the settled conversion option partially offset by $273 million benefit from the 2022 Note Hedge (as defined below).

Based on conversion requests received through the filing date, we expect to settle in cash an aggregate of approximately $34 million in principal amount of the 2022 Notes during the first quarter of 2021. We may receive additional conversion requests that require settlement after the first quarter of 2021.
Repurchase of 2022 Notes

On August 11, 2020, we repurchased $497 million in aggregate principal amount of the 2022 Notes (the “2022 Notes Repurchase”) funded in part by the $1.1 billion proceeds received from the partial unwind of the 2022 Note Hedge (as defined below). The 2022 Notes Repurchase was accounted for as a debt extinguishment in which $493 million and $1.1 billion were allocated to the liability and equity components of the 2022 Notes, respectively. The cash consideration allocated to the liability component was based on the estimated fair value of the liability component utilizing a discount rate assuming a similar liability per the Company’s credit rating with the same maturity, but without the conversion option, as of the repurchase date. The cash consideration allocated to the equity component was based on the aggregate cash consideration less the estimated fair value of the liability component. The loss on extinguishment of $39 million recorded as other income (expense), net, represents the difference between the allocated cash consideration and the carrying value of the liability component, which includes the proportionate amounts of unamortized debt discount and unamortized debt issuance costs in the amount of $43 million.

Note Hedge

To minimize the impact of potential economic dilution upon conversion of the 2022 Notes, we entered into convertible note hedge transactions (the “2022 Note Hedge”) with certain investment banks, with respect to our common stock concurrently with the issuance of the 2022 Notes.
PurchaseInitial SharesShares as of
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
2022 Note Hedge$128,017 5,807 1,256 

The 2022 Note Hedge covers shares of our common stock at a strike price per share that corresponds to the initial conversion price of the 2022 Notes, subject to adjustment, and are exercisable upon conversion of the 2022 Notes. If exercised, we may elect to receive cash, shares of our common stock, or a combination of cash and shares. The 2022 Note Hedge will expire upon the maturity of the 2022 Notes. The 2022 Note Hedge is intended to reduce the potential economic dilution upon conversion of the 2022 Notes in the event that the fair value per share of our common stock at the time of exercise is greater than the conversion price of the 2022 Notes. The 2022 Note Hedge is a separate transaction and is not part of the terms of the 2022 Notes. Holders of the 2022 Notes will not have any rights with respect to the 2022 Note Hedge. The 2022 Note Hedge does not impact earnings per share, as it was entered into to offset any dilution from the 2022 Notes.

On August 11, 2020, in connection with the 2022 Notes Repurchase, we entered into partial unwind agreements (the “Note Hedge Unwind”) to reduce the number of options corresponding to the principal amount of the 2022 Notes Repurchase. We received $1.1 billion for the Note Hedge Unwind and the aggregate number of shares underlying the call options under the 2022 Note Hedge was reduced by 3.7 million shares. Consistent with early conversions of the 2022 Notes, proceeds received by the Company from the Note Hedge Unwind were used to settle a portion of the 2022 Notes Repurchase.

Warrants
ProceedsInitial SharesStrike PriceFirst Expiration DateShares as of
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)(in thousands)(in thousands)
2022 Warrants$54,071 5,807 $203.40 September 1, 20221,829 

Separately, we entered into warrant transactions with certain investment banks, whereby we sold warrants to acquire, subject to adjustment, the number of shares of our common stock shown in the table above (the “2022 Warrants”). If the average market value per share of our common stock for the reporting period, as measured under the 2022 Warrants, exceeds the strike price of the respective 2022 Warrants, such 2022 Warrants would have a dilutive effect on our earnings per share to the extent we report net income. The 2022 Warrants are separate transactions and are not remeasured through earnings each reporting period. The 2022 Warrants are not part of the 2022 Notes or 2022 Note Hedge.

In connection with the 2022 Notes Repurchase, we also entered into partial unwind agreements to reduce the number of warrants outstanding under the 2022 Warrants by delivering an aggregate of 2.3 million shares of our common stock to the holders of the 2022 Warrants.
According to the terms, the remaining portion of the 2022 Warrants will be net share settled and automatically exercised over a 60 trading day period beginning on the first expiration date as set forth above based on the daily volume-weighted average stock prices over the same 60 trading day period.

We expect to issue additional shares of our common stock in the second half of 2022 upon the automatic exercise of the remaining portion of the 2022 Warrants. The remaining portion of the 2022 Warrants could have a dilutive effect to the extent that the daily volume-weighted average stock prices over a 60 trading day period beginning on September 1, 2022 exceeds the strike price of the 2022 Warrants. Based on the volume-weighted average stock price on December 31, 2020, the total number of shares of our common stock to be issued upon the automatic exercise of the remaining portion of the 2022 Warrants would be approximately 1.1 million. The actual number of shares of our common stock issuable upon the automatic exercise of the remaining portion of the 2022 Warrants, if any, is unknown at this time.
In November 2013, we issued $575 million of 0% convertible senior notes, which $413 million principal amount was early converted prior to and the remaining principal amount of $162 million was cash settled at maturity on November 1, 2018, in accordance with their terms. As a result of the settlements, we recorded an aggregate net reduction to additional paid-in capital, reflecting $773 million of fair value adjustments to the conversion option settled, offset by a $767 million benefit from the exercise of the convertible note hedge transactions (“2018 Note Hedge”). The related warrant transactions with certain investment banks (the “2018 Warrants”) were net share settled based on the daily volume-weighted average stock prices over a 60 trading day period beginning on the first expiration date, February 1, 2019. According to the terms of the 2018 Warrants, we issued 4.3 million and 1.3 million shares of our common stock upon the automatic exercise of the 2018 Warrants during the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The 2018 Warrants were no longer outstanding as of June 30, 2019.
v3.20.4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]  
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The components of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, consist of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Foreign currency translation adjustment$87,127 $20,884 
Net unrealized gain on investments, net of tax
7,102 4,371 
        Accumulated other comprehensive income$94,229 $25,255 
Reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive income into net income were not material for all periods presented.
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]  
Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity
Common Stock

We are authorized to issue a total of 600.0 million shares of common stock as of December 31, 2020. Holders of our common stock are not entitled to receive dividends unless declared by our board of directors. As of December 31, 2020, we had 195.8 million shares of common stock outstanding and had reserved shares of common stock for future issuance as follows (in thousands): 
 December 31, 2020
Stock plans:
Options outstanding522 
RSUs (1)
7,362 
Shares of common stock available for future grants:
2012 Equity Incentive Plan (2)
28,004 
2012 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (2)
9,755 
Total shares of common stock reserved for future issuance45,643 
 
(1)Represents the number of shares issuable upon settlement of outstanding RSUs and performance-based RSUs, as discussed under in Note 14.
(2)Refer to Note 14 for a description of these plans.

During the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, we issued a total of 4.1 million shares and 5.0 million shares, respectively, from stock option exercises, vesting of RSUs, net of employee payroll taxes and purchases from ESPP. In addition, as described in Note 11, we issued 2.3 million shares of our common stock upon unwind of the 2022 Warrants during the year ended December 31, 2020 and 4.3 million and 1.3 million shares of our common stock upon the automatic exercise of the 2018 Warrants during the year end December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Preferred Stock

Our board of directors has the authority, without further action by stockholders, to issue up to 10 million shares of preferred stock in one or more series. Our board of directors may designate the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions of the preferred stock, including dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption, liquidation preference and number of shares constituting any series or the designation of any series. The issuance of preferred stock could have the effect of restricting dividends on our common stock, diluting the voting power of our common stock, impairing the liquidation rights of our common stock, or delaying or preventing a change in control. At December 31, 2020 and 2019, no shares of preferred stock were outstanding.
v3.20.4
Equity Awards
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Equity Awards Equity Awards
We currently have two equity incentive plans, our 2005 Stock Option Plan (the “2005 Plan”) and our 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”). Our 2005 Plan was terminated in connection with our initial public offering in 2012 but continues to govern the terms of outstanding stock options that were granted prior to the termination of the 2005 Plan. We no longer grant equity awards pursuant to our 2005 Plan.
 
Our 2012 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, RSUs, performance-based stock awards and other forms of equity compensation (collectively, “equity awards”). In addition, the 2012 Plan provides for the grant of performance cash awards. Incentive stock options may be granted only to employees. All other equity awards may be granted to employees, including officers, as well as directors and consultants. The share reserve may increase to the extent outstanding stock options under the 2005 Plan expire or terminate unexercised. Prior to January 2019, the share reserve also automatically increased on January 1 of each year, by up to 5% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding year as determined by our board of directors. In January 2019, our Board of Directors amended the 2012 Plan to remove the automatic increase provision. Therefore, for the remaining term of the 2012 Plan, the share reserve will not be increased without stockholder approval.
Our 2012 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2012 ESPP”) authorizes the issuance of shares of common stock pursuant to purchase rights granted to our employees. The price at which common stock is purchased under the 2012 ESPP is equal to 85% of the fair market value of our common stock on the first or last day of the offering period, whichever is lower. Offering periods are six months long and begin on February 1 and August 1 of each year. The number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance automatically increases on January 1 of each year until January 1, 2022, by up to 1% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding on December 31 of the preceding year as determined by our board of directors. Our board of directors elected not to increase the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2012 ESPP pursuant to the provision described in the preceding sentence for the years ending December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Stock Options

Stock options are exercisable at a price equal to the market value of the underlying shares of common stock on the date of the grant as determined by our board of directors or, for those stock options issued subsequent to our initial public offering, the closing price of our common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on the date of grant. Stock options granted under our 2005 Plan and the 2012 Plan to new employees generally vest 25% one year from the date the requisite service period begins and continue to vest monthly for each month of continued employment over the remaining three years. Options granted generally are exercisable for a period of up to ten years contingent on each holder’s continuous status as a service provider.
 
A summary of stock option activity was as follows:
Number of
Shares 		Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price Per Share		Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term 		Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)(in years)(in thousands)
Outstanding at December 31, 20181,811 $46.55 
Granted161 $266.31 
Exercised(640)$34.61 $138,389 
Canceled(178)$86.02 
Outstanding at December 31, 20191,154 $77.70 
Exercised(621)$52.98 $199,094 
Canceled(11)$75.77 
Outstanding at December 31, 2020522 $107.14 4.5$231,456 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2020503 $100.95 4.4$225,866 
Vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2020391 $55.98 3.1$193,374 
 
The total intrinsic value of the options exercised was $204 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. No stock options were granted during the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2018. The weighted-average grant date fair value per share of options granted was $266.31 for the year ended December 31, 2019. The total fair value of shares vested was $7 million, $8 million and $12 million for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
 
The options granted during the year ended December 31, 2019 are options with both service and market-based vesting conditions granted to our Chief Executive Officer in connection with the commencement of his employment during the year. Included in the number of shares canceled during the year ended December 31, 2019 are 171,912 options with both service and market-based vesting conditions granted to our former Chief Executive Officer during the year ended December 31, 2017 in connection with the commencement of his employment which were canceled upon termination of his employment during the year ended December 31, 2019.

As of December 31, 2020, total unrecognized compensation cost, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, related to unvested stock options was approximately $11 million. The weighted-average remaining vesting period of unvested stock options at December 31, 2020 was 3.9 years.
 
RSUs

A summary of RSU activity was as follows:
Number of
Shares 		Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per ShareAggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)(in thousands)
Outstanding at December 31, 201810,202 $121.84 
Granted5,338 $240.32 
Vested(5,487)$126.85 $1,369,918 
Forfeited(1,320)$145.34 
Outstanding at December 31, 20198,733 $185.39 
Granted3,643 $367.52 
Vested(4,250)$181.85 $1,759,996 
Forfeited(764)$221.84 
Outstanding at December 31, 20207,362 $274.23 $4,052,092 
Expected to vest as of December 31, 20206,408 $3,526,957 

RSUs outstanding as of December 31, 2020 were comprised of 7.0 million RSUs with only service conditions and 0.4 million RSUs with both service conditions and performance conditions. RSUs granted with only service conditions under the 2012 Plan to employees generally vest over a four-year period. The total intrinsic value of the RSUs vested was $932 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.

PRSUs with both service and performance conditions are considered as eligible to vest when approved by the compensation committee of our board of directors in January of the year following the grant. The ultimate number of shares eligible to vest for PRSUs range from 0% to 180% of the target number of shares depending on achievement relative to the performance metric over the applicable period. The PRSUs shares granted in the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 will vest 33% in February of the following year and continue to vest quarterly for the remaining two subsequent years, contingent on each holder’s continuous status as a service provider on the applicable vesting dates. The number of PRSUs granted shown in the table above reflects the shares that could be eligible to vest at 100% of target for PRSUs and includes adjustments for over or under achievement for PRSUs granted in the prior year. In July 2020, our board of directors approved a modification to the fiscal year 2020 performance target. As a result, we will recognize an incremental expense of $29 million over the remaining vesting period. We recognized $70 million, $68 million, and $92 million of stock-based compensation expense, net of actual and estimated forfeitures, associated with PRSUs on a graded vesting basis during the year ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018, respectively.

As of December 31, 2020, total unrecognized compensation cost, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, related to unvested RSUs was approximately $1.8 billion and the weighted-average remaining vesting period was 2.7 years.
v3.20.4
Stock-based Compensation
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]  
Stock-based Compensation Stock-based Compensation
 
The following assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes options pricing model to calculate our stock-based compensation on the date of the grant:
 Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
ESPP:
Expected volatility
30%- 60%
30%-49%
26%-31%
Expected term (in years)0.50.50.5
Risk-free interest rate
0.11%-2.04%
2.04%-2.46%
1.15%-2.22%
Dividend yield— %— %— %
Expected volatility. The expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of our common stock for a period similar to our expected term.
Expected term. We determine the expected term for stock options based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the stock-based awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. We estimate the expected term for ESPP using the purchase period.
Risk-free interest rate. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the expected term of the stock-based award.
Expected dividend yield. Our expected dividend yield is zero, as we have not and do not currently intend to declare dividends in the foreseeable future.
v3.20.4
Net Income (Loss) Per Share
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Net Income (Loss) Per Share Net Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period, adjusted for the effects of dilutive shares of common stock, which are comprised of outstanding stock options, RSUs, ESPP obligations, the 2022 Notes and the 2022 and 2018 Warrants. Stock awards with performance conditions are included in dilutive shares to the extent the performance condition is met. The dilutive potential shares of common stock are computed using the treasury stock method or the as-if converted method, as applicable. The effects of outstanding stock options, RSUs, ESPP obligations, 2022 Notes and 2022 and 2018 Warrants are excluded from the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share in periods in which the effect would be antidilutive.

The following tables present the calculation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders (in thousands, except per share data):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Numerator:
Net income (loss)$118,503 $626,698 $(26,704)
Denominator:
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic
193,096 186,466 177,846 
Weighted-average effect of potentially dilutive securities:
Common stock options547 1,109 — 
RSUs4,421 4,897 — 
2018 Warrants— 842 — 
2022 Notes842 2,737 — 
2022 Notes settlements1,931 — — 
2022 Warrants920 1,172 — 
Partial settlement of 2022 Warrants721 — — 
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted202,478 197,223 177,846 
Net income (loss) per share - basic$0.61 $3.36 $(0.15)
Net income (loss) per share - diluted$0.59 $3.18 $(0.15)
Potentially dilutive securities that are not included in the calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share because doing so would be antidilutive are as follows (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Common stock options— 161 1,811 
Restricted stock units347 413 10,202 
ESPP obligations224 273 318 
2018 Warrants— — 7,783 
2022 Notes— — 5,807 
2022 Warrants— — 5,807 
Total potentially dilutive securities571 847 31,728 
v3.20.4
Income Taxes
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes Income Taxes
The components of income (loss) before income taxes by U.S. and foreign jurisdictions were as follows (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
United States$11,940 $(48,558)$(153,290)
Foreign137,245 115,743 114,266 
Total$149,185 $67,185 $(39,024)

The provision for (benefit from) income taxes consists of the following (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Current provision:
Federal$— $391 $(336)
State285 204 163 
Foreign53,055 15,657 22,204 
53,340 16,252 22,031 
Deferred provision:
Federal(5,241)(3,481)(2,026)
State(1,160)(882)(377)
Foreign(16,257)(571,402)(31,948)
(22,658)(575,765)(34,351)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes$30,682 $(559,513)$(12,320)
The effective income tax rate differs from the federal statutory income tax rate applied to the income (loss) before income taxes due to the following (in thousands): 
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Tax computed at U.S. federal statutory rate$31,329 $14,109 $(8,195)
State taxes, net of federal benefit210 122 98 
Tax rate differential for international subsidiaries1,342 (5,005)(41,429)
Stock-based compensation(157,237)(108,023)(93,073)
Tax credits(63,716)(51,237)(44,695)
Foreign restructuring and amortization7,319 — (625,292)
Non-deductible expenses3,601 3,112 1,757 
Tax effects associated with Topic 606— — (23,073)
Executive Compensation24,503 19,289 8,308 
Valuation allowance183,331 (431,880)813,274 
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes$30,682 $(559,513)$(12,320)

Significant components of our deferred tax assets are shown below (in thousands). A valuation allowance has been recognized to offset our deferred tax assets, as necessary, by the amount of any tax benefits that, based on evidence, are not expected to be realized.
 December 31,
 20202019
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards$882,256 $740,141 
Credit carryforwards235,572 171,856 
Lease liability114,639 108,224 
Depreciation and amortization635,904 577,599 
Other102,926 91,149 
Total deferred tax assets1,971,297 1,688,969 
Less valuation allowance(1,128,936)(918,596)
842,361 770,373 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Right of use asset(105,641)(101,091)
Other(70,805)(73,818)
Net deferred tax assets$665,915 $595,464 
The unremitted earnings of our foreign subsidiaries are not considered indefinitely reinvested, except in certain designated jurisdictions in which the resident entity is a service provider that is not expected to generate substantial amounts of cash in excess of what may be reinvested by the local entity. We have not provided for state income or withholding taxes on the undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries which are considered indefinitely invested outside of the U.S. The amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability on these undistributed earnings is not material as of December 31, 2020.

As of December 31, 2020, we had U.S. federal net operating loss and federal tax credit carryforwards of approximately $3.4 billion and $184 million, respectively. The federal tax credits and a portion of the federal net operating loss carryforwards will begin to expire in 2024 if not utilized. In addition, as of December 31, 2020, we had state net operating loss and state tax credit carryforwards of approximately $2.0 billion and $133 million, respectively. The state net operating loss will begin to expire in 2021 if not utilized, however the tax effected amount due to expire in 2021 is immaterial. State tax credits and a portion of the federal net operating loss carryforwards can be carried forward indefinitely. Utilization of our net operating loss and credit carryforwards may be subject to annual limitation due to the ownership change limitations provided by the Internal Revenue Code and similar state provisions. Such an annual limitation could result in the expiration of the net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards before utilization.
 
We maintain a full valuation allowance against our U.S. deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2020. We regularly assess the need for a valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets. In making that assessment, we consider both positive and negative evidence related to the likelihood of realization of the deferred tax assets to determine, based on the weight of available evidence, whether it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. Due to cumulative losses over recent years and based on all available evidence, we have determined that it is more likely than not that our U.S. deferred tax assets will not be realized as of December 31, 2020.

We recognized an income tax benefit of $574 million due to the release of the valuation allowance on the Irish deferred tax assets for the year ended December 31, 2019. These Irish deferred tax assets were created primarily as a result of the difference between the tax basis in our Irish subsidiary and the cost reported in our consolidated financial statements resulting from the transfer of intangible assets to the Irish subsidiary as part of our foreign restructuring in 2018. Management applied significant judgment in assessing the positive and negative evidence available in the determination of the amount of deferred tax assets that were more-likely-than-not to be realized in the future. The $210 million increase in the 2020 valuation allowance was primarily attributable to an increase in deferred tax assets related to net operating losses. The $424 million decrease in the 2019 valuation allowance was primarily attributable to the release of the valuation allowance on the Irish deferred tax assets. The $760 million increase in the 2018 valuation allowance was primarily attributable to an increase of approximately $590 million in deferred tax assets that are not realizable related to our foreign restructuring completed during 2018 giving rise to foreign amortizable assets. To the extent sufficient positive evidence becomes available, we may release a portion, or all, of our valuation allowance in one or more future periods. A release of the valuation allowance, if any, would result in the recognition of certain deferred tax assets and a material income tax benefit for the period in which such release is recorded.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance of total unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Balance, beginning period$36,789 $27,591 $27,648 
Tax positions taken in prior period:
Gross increases5,775 1,516 3,721 
Gross decreases(1,051)— (2,896)
Tax positions taken in current period:
Gross increases38,812 7,682 5,796 
Lapse of statute of limitations— — (1,078)
Settlements— — (5,600)
Balance, end of period$80,325 $36,789 $27,591 
 
As of December 31, 2020, we had gross unrecognized tax benefits of approximately $80 million, of which $20 million would impact the effective tax rate, if recognized. We recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense. Accrued interest and penalties included in our liability related to unrecognized tax benefits were $2 million and $1 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits could be reduced upon expiration of the applicable statutes of limitations. The potential reduction in unrecognized tax benefits during the next 12 months is not expected to be material. Interest and penalties accrued on these uncertain tax positions are recognized as income tax expense and will be released upon the expiration of the statutes of limitations. These amounts are also not material for any periods presented.
 
We are subject to taxation in the United States and foreign jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2020, our tax years 2004 to 2019 remain subject to examination in most jurisdictions.

Governments in certain countries where we do business have enacted legislation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) enacted by the United States on March 27, 2020. We are continuing to analyze these legislative developments which are not material for the year ended December 31, 2020.
 
There are differing interpretations of tax laws and regulations, and as a result, disputes may arise with tax authorities involving issues of the timing and amount of deductions and allocations of income among various tax jurisdictions. We periodically evaluate our exposures associated with our tax filing positions. We believe that adequate amounts have been reserved for any adjustments that may ultimately result from these examinations, and we do not anticipate a significant impact to our gross unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months related to these years. Although the timing of the resolution, settlement, and closure of any audit is highly uncertain, it is reasonably possible that the balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits could significantly change in the next 12 months. However, given the number of years that remain subject to examination, we are unable to estimate the full range of possible adjustments to the balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits.
v3.20.4
Commitments and Contingencies
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies
Operating Leases

 For some of our offices and data centers, we have entered into non-cancelable operating lease agreements with various expiration dates through 2035. Certain lease agreements include options to renew or terminate the lease, which are not reasonably certain to be exercised and therefore are not factored into our determination of lease payments.

Total operating lease costs was $83 million and $64 million, excluding short-term lease costs, variable lease costs and sublease income each of which were immaterial, for each of the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Total cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities was $59 million and $44 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Operating lease liabilities arising from obtaining operating right-of-use assets was $112 million and $115 million for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

As of December 31, 2020, the weighted-average remaining lease term is 8.5 years, and the weighted-average discount rate is 3.5%.

Maturities of operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020 are presented in the table below (in thousands):
Years Ending December 31,
2021$87,832 
202286,128 
202379,906 
202462,211 
202553,818 
Thereafter213,012 
Total operating lease payments582,907 
Less: imputed interest(87,892)
Present value of operating lease liabilities$495,015 

In addition to the amounts above, as of December 31, 2020, we have operating leases, primarily for offices, that have not yet commenced with undiscounted cash flows of $342 million. These operating leases will commence between 2021 and 2022 with lease terms of 4 to 14 years.
Other Contractual Commitments

Other contractual commitments consist of data center and IT operations and sales and marketing activities related to our daily business operations. Future minimum payments under our non-cancelable purchase commitments as of December 31, 2020 are presented in the table below (in thousands):
Purchase Obligations (1)
Years Ending December 31,
2021$119,990 
202291,156 
202331,145 
202423,444 
202513,494 
Thereafter4,001 
Total$283,230 

(1)Not included in the table above are certain purchase commitments related to our future annual Knowledge user conferences and other customer or sales conferences to be held in 2022 and future years. If we had canceled these contractual commitments as of December 31, 2020 we would have been obligated to pay cancellation penalties of approximately $36 million in aggregate.

In addition to the amounts above, the repayments of our 2022 Notes and 2030 Notes with an aggregate principal amount of $169 million and $1.5 billion are due on June 1, 2022 and September 1, 2030, respectively. Refer to Note 11 for further information regarding our Notes. Further, $20 million of unrecognized tax benefits have been recorded as liabilities as of December 31, 2020.

Letters of Credit

As of December 31, 2020, we had letters of credit in the aggregate amount of $21 million, primarily in connection with our customer contracts and operating leases.

Legal Proceedings
 
From time to time, we are party to litigation and other legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business. While the results of any litigation or other legal proceedings are uncertain, management does not believe the ultimate resolution of any pending legal matters is likely to have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows, except for those matters for which we have recorded a loss contingency. We accrue for loss contingencies when it is both probable that we will incur the loss and when we can reasonably estimate the amount of the loss or range of loss.

Generally, our subscription agreements require us to defend our customers for third-party intellectual property infringement and other claims. Any adverse determination related to intellectual property claims or other litigation could prevent us from offering our services and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Indemnification Provisions

Our agreements include provisions indemnifying customers against intellectual property and other third-party claims. In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our directors, executive officers and certain other officers that will require us, among other things, to indemnify them against certain liabilities that may arise as a result of their affiliation with us. We have not incurred any costs as a result of such indemnification obligations and have not recorded any liabilities related to such obligations in the consolidated financial statements.
v3.20.4
Information about Geographic Areas and Products
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract]  
Information About Geographic Areas and Products Information about Geographic Areas and Products
Revenues by geographic area, based on the location of our users, were as follows for the periods presented (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
North America (1)
$2,959,827 $2,276,549 $1,725,255 
EMEA (2)
1,132,417 865,661 654,677 
Asia Pacific and other427,240 318,227 228,884 
Total revenues$4,519,484 $3,460,437 $2,608,816 

Property and equipment, net by geographic area were as follows (in thousands):
 December 31,
20202019
Property and equipment, net:
North America (3)
$394,215 $269,754 
EMEA (2)
172,136 118,399 
Asia Pacific and other93,290 79,932 
Total property and equipment, net$659,641 $468,085 
 
(1)Revenues attributed to the United States were 94% of North America revenues for each of the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
(2)Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”)
(3)Property and equipment, net attributed to the United States were approximately 78% and 73% of property and equipment, net attributable to North America as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Subscription revenues consist of the following (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Digital workflow products$3,749,118 $2,810,887 $2,111,702 
ITOM products536,679 444,192 309,611 
Total subscription revenues$4,285,797 $3,255,079 $2,421,313 
Our digital workflow products include the Now Platform, IT Service Management, IT Business Management, DevOps, IT Asset Management, Security Operations, Governance, Risk and Compliance, HR Service Delivery, Safe Workplace Suite of applications, Workplace Service Delivery, Legal Service Delivery, Customer Service Management, Field Service Management, Connected Operations, App Engine and IntegrationHub, and are generally priced on a per user basis. Our ITOM products are generally priced on a per node (physical or virtual server) basis. In previously issued consolidated financial statements, we referred to digital workflow products as “service management products.”
v3.20.4
Subsequent Events
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Subsequent Events [Abstract]  
Subsequent Events Subsequent EventsOn January 8, 2021, we completed the acquisition of Element AI Inc., a Canadian company, by acquiring all issued and outstanding shares for approximately $230 million, subject to certain customary adjustments, in an all-cash transaction to accelerate artificial intelligence capabilities across our Now Platform. We are currently evaluating the purchase price allocation for this transaction.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Principles of Consolidation
Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), and include our accounts and the accounts of our wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated upon consolidation.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Such management estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, standalone selling price (“SSP”) for each distinct performance obligation included in customer contracts with multiple performance obligations, the period of benefit for deferred commissions, valuation of intangible assets, the useful life of property and equipment and identifiable intangible assets, stock-based compensation expense and income taxes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the estimates and assumptions and determined there was no material impact.
Segments
Segments
 
Our chief operating decision maker allocates resources and assesses financial performance based upon discrete financial information at the consolidated level. There are no segment managers who are held accountable by the chief operating decision maker, or anyone else, for operations, operating results and planning for levels or components below the consolidated unit level. Accordingly, we have determined that we operate as a single operating and reportable segment.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
 
The functional currencies for our foreign subsidiaries are primarily their local currencies. Assets and liabilities of the wholly-owned foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. Dollars at exchange rates in effect at each period end. Amounts classified in stockholders’ equity are translated at historical exchange rates. Revenues and expenses are translated at the average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as a component of stockholders’ equity. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in other income (expense), net within the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), and have not been material for all periods presented.
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Commissions
Revenue Recognition

Revenues are recognized when control of services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those services.
Subscription revenues

Subscription revenues are primarily comprised of subscription fees that give customers access to the ordered subscription service, related support and updates, if any, to the subscribed service during the subscription term. We recognize subscription revenues ratably over the contract term beginning on the commencement date of each contract, which is the date we make our services available to our customers. Our contracts with customers typically include a fixed amount of consideration and are generally non-cancelable and without any refund-type provisions. We typically invoice our customers annually in advance for our subscription services upon execution of the initial contract or subsequent renewal, and our invoices are typically due within 30 days from the invoice date.

Subscription revenues also include revenues from self-hosted offerings in which customers deploy, or we grant customers the option to deploy without significant penalty, our subscription service internally or contract with a third party to host the software. For these contracts, we account for the software element separately from the related support and updates as they are distinct performance obligations. Refer to the discussion below related to contracts with multiple performance obligations for further details. The transaction price is allocated to separate performance obligations on a relative SSP basis. The transaction price allocated to the software element is recognized when transfer of control of the software to the customer is complete. The transaction price allocated to the related support and updates are recognized ratably over the contract term.

Professional services and other revenues

Our professional services arrangements are primarily on a time-and-materials basis, and we generally invoice our customers monthly in arrears for these professional services based on actual hours and expenses incurred. Some of our professional services arrangements are on a fixed fee or subscription basis. Professional services revenues are recognized as services are delivered. Other revenues consist of fees from customer training delivered on-site or through publicly available classes. Typical payment terms require our customers to pay us within 30 days of invoice.

Contracts with multiple performance obligations

We enter into contracts that can include various combinations of products and services, which are generally capable of being distinct and accounted for as separate performance obligations. We evaluate the terms and conditions included within our customer contracts to ensure appropriate revenue recognition, including whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately versus together. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, the transaction price is allocated to the separate performance obligations on a relative SSP basis. We determine SSP by considering the historical selling price of these performance obligations in similar transactions as well as other factors, including, but not limited to, competitive pricing of similar products, other software vendor pricing, industry publications and current pricing practices.

Contract balances

Unbilled receivables represent subscription revenues that are recognized upon delivery of the software prior to being invoiced. Unbilled receivables are primarily presented under prepaid expenses and other current assets on our consolidated balance sheets.

Deferred revenue consists primarily of payments received related to unsatisfied performance obligations at the end of the period. Once our services are available to customers, we record amounts due in accounts receivable and in deferred revenue. To the extent we bill customers in advance of the billing period commencement date, the accounts receivable and corresponding deferred revenue amounts are netted to zero on our consolidated balance sheets, unless such amounts have been paid as of the balance sheet date.

Customer deposits primarily relate to payments received from customers which could be refundable pursuant to the terms of the contract and are presented under accrued expenses and other current liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets.
Deferred Commissions

Deferred commissions are the incremental selling costs that are associated with acquiring customer contracts and consist primarily of sales commissions paid to our sales organization and referral fees paid to independent third-parties. Deferred commissions also include the associated payroll taxes and fringe benefit costs associated with payments to our sales employees to the extent they are incremental. Commissions and referral fees earned upon the execution of initial and expansion contracts are primarily deferred and amortized over a period of benefit that we have determined to be five years. Commissions earned upon the renewal of customer contracts are deferred and amortized over the average renewal term. Additionally, for self-hosted offerings, consistent with the recognition of subscription revenue for self-hosted offerings, a portion of the commission cost is expensed upfront when the self-hosted offering is made available. We determine the period of benefit by taking into consideration our customer contracts, our technology life cycle and other factors. We include amortization of deferred commissions in sales and marketing expense in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). There was no impairment loss in relation to the incremental selling costs capitalized for all periods presented.
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Measurements
 
Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. We use a fair value hierarchy that is based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:
 
Level 1—Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2—Other inputs that are directly or indirectly observable in the marketplace; and
Level 3— Significant unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with original or remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at fair value.
Accounts Receivable, net
Accounts Receivable, net

We record trade accounts receivable at the net invoice value and such receivables are non-interest bearing. We consider receivables past due based on the contractual payment terms. We reserve for specific amounts if collectability is no longer reasonably assured based on assessment of various factors including historical loss rates and expectations of forward-looking loss estimates. Individual accounts receivable are written off when we become aware of a specific customer’s inability to meet its financial obligation, and all collection efforts are exhausted.
Investments
Investments
 
Investments consist of commercial paper, corporate notes and bonds, certificates of deposit and U.S. government and agency securities. We classify investments as available-for-sale at the time of purchase. All investments are recorded at estimated fair value and investments with original maturities of less than one year at time of purchase is classified as short-term. Unrealized gains and losses are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, a component of stockholders’ equity, except for credit-related impairment losses for available-for-sale debt securities.

We evaluate investments with unrealized loss positions for other than temporary impairment by assessing if they are related to deterioration in credit risk and whether we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, our intent to sell and whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the securities before the recovery of their cost basis. Credit-related impairment losses, not to exceed the amount that fair value is less than the amortized cost basis, are recognized through an allowance for credit losses with changes in the allowance for credit losses recorded in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). For purposes of identifying and measuring impairment, the policy election was made to exclude the applicable accrued interest from both the fair value and amortized cost basis. Applicable accrued interest, net of the allowance for credit losses (if any) of $13 million and $11 million, is recorded in prepaid expenses and other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

Realized gains and losses and declines in value judged to be other than temporary are determined based on the specific identification method and are reported in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
Strategic Investments
Strategic investments

Strategic investments consist of debt and non-marketable equity investments in privately-held companies in which we do not have a controlling interest or significant influence. Debt investments in privately-held companies are classified as available-for-sale and are recorded at their estimated fair value with changes in fair value recorded through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). We have elected to apply the measurement alternative for equity investments that do not have readily determinable fair values, measuring them at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus adjustments resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or a similar investment of the same issuer. An impairment loss is recorded when event or circumstance indicates a decline in value has occurred. We include these strategic investments in other assets on our consolidated balance sheets.
Derivatives Financial Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments

We use derivative financial instruments, mainly forward contracts with maturities of 12 months or less, to manage foreign currency risks. These derivative contracts are not designated as hedging instruments and changes in the fair value are recorded in other income (expense), net on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Realized gains (losses) from settlement of the derivative assets and liabilities are classified as investing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Property and Equipment, net
Property and Equipment, net
 
Property and equipment are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Building39 years
Computer equipment and software  
3-5 years
Furniture and fixtures  
3-7 years
Leasehold and other improvements  shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life
Capitalized Software Development Costs
Capitalized Software Development Costs
 
Software development costs for software to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed are expensed as incurred until the establishment of technological feasibility, at which time those costs are capitalized until the product is available for general release to customers and amortized over the estimated life of the product. Costs and time incurred between the establishment of technological feasibility and product release have not been material, and all software development costs have been charged to research and development expense in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
Costs incurred to develop our internal administration, finance and accounting systems are capitalized during the application development stage and generally amortized over the software’s estimated useful life of three to five years. Costs related to preliminary project activities and post implementation activities are expensed as incurred.
Leases
Leases
 
We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at inception. Operating lease right-of-use assets and liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. Lease payments consist primarily of the fixed payments under the arrangement, less any lease incentives. We generally use an incremental borrowing rate estimated based on the information available at the lease commencement date to determine the present value of lease payments, unless the implicit rate is readily determinable. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

We account for lease and non-lease components as a single lease component for office leases. Lease and non-lease components for all other leases are generally accounted for separately. Additionally, we do not record leases on the balance sheet that, at the lease commencement date, have a lease term of 12 months or less.

Operating leases are included in operating lease right-of-use assets, current portion of operating lease liabilities, and operating lease liabilities, less current portion in our consolidated balance sheets. We did not have any material financing leases in any of the periods presented.
Business Combinations
Business Combinations

We allocate the acquisition purchase price to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed, based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of these assets acquired and liabilities assumed is recorded as goodwill. Allocation of the purchase price requires significant estimates in determining the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities, especially with respect to intangible assets. Critical estimates include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows, discount rates, the time and expense to recreate the assets and profit margin a market participant would receive. These estimates are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates.
Goodwill, Intangible Assets and Impairment of Long Lived Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill is evaluated for impairment at least annually or more frequently if circumstances indicate that goodwill may not be recoverable. We changed the timing of our annual assessment from fourth quarter to third quarter and did not consider this change to be material. We believe the change in timing is preferable as it better aligns with the Company’s closing processes. This change did not delay, accelerate or avoid any impairment charge. A qualitative assessment is performed to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of its reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the reporting unit does not pass the qualitative assessment, the carrying amount of the reporting unit, including goodwill, is compared to fair value and goodwill is considered impaired if the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value. Any excess is recognized as an impairment loss.

Intangible assets consist of developed technologies and other intangible assets, including patents and contractual agreements. Intangible assets are amortized over the period of estimated benefit using the straight-line method and estimated useful lives ranging from four to eleven years.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
We evaluate long-lived assets, including purchased intangible assets, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is measured by comparing the carrying amount to the future undiscounted cash flows we expect the asset to generate. Any excess of the carrying value of the asset above its fair value is recognized as an impairment loss.
Advertising Costs Advertising CostsAdvertising costs, excluding costs related to our annual Knowledge user conference and other user forums, are expensed as incurred and are included in sales and marketing expense.
Stock-based Compensation
Stock-based Compensation
 
We recognize compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock units (“RSUs”) with only service conditions on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. For stock options and RSUs with both service and performance or market conditions (performance-based RSUs (“PRSUs”)), expenses are recognized on a graded vesting basis over the requisite service period and for awards with performance conditions, when it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved. We recognize compensation expense related to shares issued pursuant to the employee stock purchase plan (“ESPP”) on a straight-line basis over the six-month offering period. We recognize compensation expense net of estimated forfeiture activity. Amounts withheld related to the minimum statutory tax withholding requirements paid by us on behalf of our employees are recorded as a liability and a reduction to additional paid-in capital when paid, and are included as a reduction of cash flows from financing activities.
We estimate the fair value of stock options with only service conditions and shares issued pursuant to the ESPP using the Black-Scholes options pricing model and the fair value of RSU awards (including PRSUs) using the fair value of our common stock on the date of grant. For stock options with both service and market conditions, we estimate the fair value of the options granted and the corresponding derived service periods using the Monte Carlo simulation, which requires the use of various assumptions, including the stock price volatility and risk-free interest rate as of the valuation date corresponding to the length of time remaining in the performance period and expected dividend yield.
Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers
Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers
 
Financial instruments potentially exposing us to credit risk consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents, derivative contracts, investments and accounts receivable. We hold cash at financial institutions that management believes are high credit, quality financial institutions and invest in investment-grade debt securities. Our derivative contracts expose us to credit risk to the extent that the counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of the arrangement. We mitigate this credit risk by transacting with major financial institutions with high credit ratings and entering into master netting arrangements, which permit net settlement of transactions with the same counterparty. We are not required to pledge, and are not entitled to receive, cash collateral related to these derivative instruments. We are also exposed to credit risk under the convertible note hedge transactions that may result from counterparties’ non-performance.
 
Credit risk arising from accounts receivable is mitigated to a certain extent due to our large number of customers and their dispersion across various industries and geographies. As of December 31, 2020 and 2019, there were no customers that represented more than 10% of our accounts receivable balance. There were no customers that individually exceeded 10% of our total revenues in any of the periods presented. For purposes of assessing concentration of credit risk and significant customers, a group of customers under common control or customers that are affiliates of each other are regarded as a single customer.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes 

We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes, in which deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the consolidated financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. We measure deferred tax assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be reversed. We recognize the effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates within the provision for income taxes as income and expense in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is established if it is more likely than not that all or a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. In determining the need for a valuation allowance, we consider future growth, forecasted earnings, future taxable income, the mix of earnings in the jurisdictions in which we operate, historical earnings, taxable income in prior years, if carryback is permitted under the law, carryforward periods and prudent and feasible tax planning strategies.

Our tax positions are subject to income tax audits by multiple tax jurisdictions throughout the world. We recognize the tax benefit of an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not the position is sustainable upon examination by the taxing authority, based on the technical merits. We measure the tax benefit recognized as the largest amount of benefit which is more likely than not to be realized upon settlement with the taxing authority. We recognize interest accrued and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in our tax provision.

We calculate the current and deferred income tax provision based on estimates and assumptions that could differ from the actual results reflected in income tax returns filed in subsequent years and record adjustments based on filed income tax returns when identified. The amount of income taxes paid is subject to examination by U.S. federal, state and foreign tax authorities. The estimate of the potential outcome of any uncertain tax issue is subject to management’s assessment of relevant risks, facts and circumstances existing at that time. To the extent the assessment of such tax position changes, we record the change in estimate in the period in which we make the determination.
Prior Period Reclassifications Prior Period ReclassificationsCertain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation. These reclassifications did not result in a restatement of prior period financial statements.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

Accounting Pronouncements Adopted in 2020

Cloud computing arrangements implementation costs

In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-15, “Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40): Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract,” which aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software. The new standard requires capitalized costs to be amortized on a straight-line basis generally over the term of the arrangement, and the financial statement presentation for these capitalized costs would be the same as that of the fees related to the hosting arrangements. We adopted this standard on a prospective basis as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

Credit losses

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments,” which requires a financial asset measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected, with further clarifications made more recently regarding the treatment of accrued interest, transfers between classifications for loans and debt securities, recoveries and the option to irrevocably elect the fair value option (on an instrument-by-instrument basis) for eligible financial assets at amortized costs. For trade receivables, loans, and other financial assets, we will be required to use a forward-looking expected loss model rather than the incurred loss model for recognizing credit losses which reflects losses that are probable. Credit losses relating to available-for-sale debt securities are required to be recorded through an allowance for credit losses rather than as a reduction in the amortized cost basis of the securities. We adopted ASU 2016-13 on a modified retrospective basis as of January 1, 2020. The adoption of this standard did not result in any cumulative effect adjustment on our consolidated financial statements upon adoption as of January 1, 2020.

Accounting Pronouncement Adopted in 2019

Leases

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (“Topic 842”),” which requires lessees to generally recognize on the balance sheet operating and financing lease liabilities and corresponding right-of-use assets, and to recognize on the income statement the expenses in a manner similar to prior practice. We adopted Topic 842 using the modified retrospective method as of January 1, 2019 with an immaterial amount of cumulative effect adjustment recorded to our accumulated deficit as of January 1, 2019 and elected not to restate the comparative periods in our financial statements in the year of adoption. We also elected the package of transition expedients available for expired or existing contracts, which allowed us to carryforward our historical assessment of (1) whether contracts are or contain leases, (2) lease classification and (3) initial direct costs. The adoption of this standard did not impact our previously reported consolidated financial statements for periods ended on or prior to December 31, 2018. Upon adoption, we recorded operating lease right-of-use assets of approximately $335 million and corresponding operating lease liabilities of $363 million on our consolidated balance sheets.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption

Debt with Conversion Options

In August 2020, the FASB issued new guidance to simplify the accounting for certain financial instruments with characteristics of liabilities and equity, including convertible instruments and contracts on an entity’s own equity. The standard eliminates beneficial conversion feature and cash conversion models resulting in more convertible instruments being accounted for as a single unit; and simplifies classification of debt on the balance sheet and earnings per share calculation. This new standard is effective for our interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2022 and earlier adoption is permitted. Amendments within this standard are required to be applied on a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this standard on our consolidated financial statements.

Income taxes

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, “Income Taxes (“Topic 740”): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes,” which simplifies the accounting for incomes taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 and amending existing guidance to improve consistent application. This new standard is effective for our interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2021 and earlier adoption is permitted. Most amendments within this standard are required to be applied on a prospective basis, while certain amendments must be applied on a retrospective or modified retrospective basis. We do not anticipate that the adoption of this standard will have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Net Income (Loss) Per Share Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period, adjusted for the effects of dilutive shares of common stock, which are comprised of outstanding stock options, RSUs, ESPP obligations, the 2022 Notes and the 2022 and 2018 Warrants. Stock awards with performance conditions are included in dilutive shares to the extent the performance condition is met. The dilutive potential shares of common stock are computed using the treasury stock method or the as-if converted method, as applicable. The effects of outstanding stock options, RSUs, ESPP obligations, 2022 Notes and 2022 and 2018 Warrants are excluded from the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share in periods in which the effect would be antidilutive.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Property and Equipment Useful Life
Property and equipment are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Building39 years
Computer equipment and software  
3-5 years
Furniture and fixtures  
3-7 years
Leasehold and other improvements  shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life
Property and equipment, net consists of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Computer equipment$974,319 $680,160 
Computer software71,688 59,511 
Leasehold and other improvements167,697 125,299 
Furniture and fixtures68,678 53,651 
Construction in progress9,257 6,830 
Property and equipment, gross1,291,639 925,451 
Less: Accumulated depreciation(631,998)(457,366)
Property and equipment, net$659,641 $468,085 
Changes in Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
The following table presents the changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts (in thousands):
Balance at Beginning of YearAdditions: Charged to OperationsAdditions: Charged to Deferred RevenueLess:
Write-offs		Balance at End of Year
Year ended December 31, 2020
Allowance for doubtful accounts$6,196 2,544 1,382 1,514 $8,608 
Year ended December 31, 2019
Allowance for doubtful accounts$4,649 1,284 1,306 1,043 $6,196 
Year ended December 31, 2018
Allowance for doubtful accounts$3,115 1,255 1,177 898 $4,649 
v3.20.4
Investments (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract]  
Summary of Investments
The following is a summary of our available-for-sale debt securities recorded within short-term and long-term investments on the consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):
 December 31, 2020
Amortized
Cost		Gross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value
Available-for-sale securities:
Commercial paper$405,429 $79 $(13)$405,495 
Corporate notes and bonds2,298,306 10,478 (298)2,308,486 
Certificates of deposit23,081 8 — 23,089 
U.S. government and agency securities145,243 942 (7)146,178 
Total available-for-sale securities$2,872,059 $11,507 $(318)$2,883,248 
December 31, 2019
Amortized
Cost		Gross
Unrealized
Gains		Gross
Unrealized
Losses		Estimated
Fair Value
Available-for-sale securities:
Commercial paper$101,416 $83 $(9)$101,490 
Corporate notes and bonds1,654,166 7,360 (196)1,661,330 
Certificates of deposit38,007 38 — 38,045 
U.S. government and agency securities127,544 254 (14)127,784 
Total available-for-sale securities$1,921,133 $7,735 $(219)$1,928,649 
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date The fair values of available-for-sale securities, by remaining contractual maturity, are as follows (in thousands):
December 31, 2020
Due within 1 year$1,415,242 
Due in 1 year through 5 years1,468,006 
Total$2,883,248 
Fair Values and Gross Unrealized Losses of Available-for-Sale Securities Aggregated by Investment Category
The following table shows the fair values and the gross unrealized losses of these available-for-sale debt securities, classified by the length of time that the securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, and aggregated by investment types, excluding those securities classified within cash and cash equivalents on the consolidated balance sheets (in thousands): 
 December 31, 2020
Less than 12 Months12 Months or GreaterTotal
 Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
Commercial paper$94,980 $(13)$— $— $94,980 $(13)
Corporate notes and bonds534,126 (298)— — 534,126 (298)
U.S. government and agency securities7,985 (7)— — 7,985 (7)
Total$637,091 $(318)$— $— $637,091 $(318)
December 31, 2019
Less than 12 Months12 Months or GreaterTotal
Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
Commercial paper$20,752 $(9)$— $— $20,752 $(9)
Corporate notes and bonds242,012 (181)16,264 (15)258,276 (196)
U.S. government and agency securities17,806 (14)— — 17,806 (14)
Total$280,570 $(204)$16,264 $(15)$296,834 $(219)
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurements (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis
The following table presents our fair value hierarchy for our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2020 (in thousands): 
Level 1Level 2Total
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds$1,305,372 $— $1,305,372 
U.S. government and agency securities— 2,000 2,000 
Marketable securities:
Commercial paper— 405,495 405,495 
Corporate notes and bonds— 2,308,486 2,308,486 
Certificates of deposit— 23,089 23,089 
U.S. government and agency securities— 146,178 146,178 
Total$1,305,372 $2,885,248 $4,190,620 

The following table presents our fair value hierarchy for our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2019 (in thousands): 
Level 1Level 2Total
Cash equivalents:
Money market funds$486,982 $— $486,982 
Commercial paper— 86,388 86,388 
Marketable securities:
Commercial paper— 101,490 101,490 
Corporate notes and bonds— 1,661,330 1,661,330 
Certificates of deposit— 38,045 38,045 
U.S. government and agency securities— 127,784 127,784 
Total$486,982 $2,015,037 $2,502,019 
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Goodwill
Goodwill balances are presented below (in thousands):
Carrying Amount
Balance as of December 31, 2018$148,845 
Goodwill acquired2,246 
Foreign currency translation adjustments5,665 
Balance as of December 31, 2019$156,756 
Goodwill acquired74,172 
Foreign currency translation adjustments9,836 
Balance as of December 31, 2020$240,764 
Schedule of Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,December 31,
 20202019
Developed technology$226,290 $177,746 
Patents64,942 67,730 
Other3,616 3,594 
Intangible assets, gross294,848 249,070 
Less: accumulated amortization(141,481)(105,220)
Intangible assets, net$153,367 $143,850 
Expected Future Amortization Expense Related to Intangible Assets
The following table presents the estimated future amortization expense related to intangible assets held at December 31, 2020 (in thousands):
Years Ending December 31,
2021$42,466 
202238,253 
202332,962 
202427,322 
20255,228 
Thereafter7,136 
Total future amortization expense$153,367 
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Schedule of Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment are stated at cost net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets as follows:
Building39 years
Computer equipment and software  
3-5 years
Furniture and fixtures  
3-7 years
Leasehold and other improvements  shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life
Property and equipment, net consists of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Computer equipment$974,319 $680,160 
Computer software71,688 59,511 
Leasehold and other improvements167,697 125,299 
Furniture and fixtures68,678 53,651 
Construction in progress9,257 6,830 
Property and equipment, gross1,291,639 925,451 
Less: Accumulated depreciation(631,998)(457,366)
Property and equipment, net$659,641 $468,085 
v3.20.4
Derivative Contracts (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Derivative Instruments The fair value of these outstanding derivative contracts was as follows (in thousands):
 Consolidated Balance Sheet LocationDecember 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Derivative Assets:
Foreign currency derivative contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets$7,541 $2,237 
Derivative Liabilities
Foreign currency derivative contractsAccrued expenses and other current liabilities$9,879 $1,362 
v3.20.4
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]  
Summary of Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Accrued payroll$371,861 $230,682 
Taxes payable58,466 38,326 
Other employee related liabilities91,654 74,853 
Other146,112 117,542 
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities$668,093 $461,403 
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Convertible Notes Payable [Abstract]  
Convertible Debt
The following table summarizes the carrying value of our outstanding debt (in thousands, except percentages):
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
2030 Notes2022 Notes2022 Notes
Long-term debt
Principal$1,500,000 $169,224 $782,491 
Less: debt issuance cost and debt discount, net of amortization(17,703)(11,368)(87,510)
Net carrying amount$1,482,297 $157,856 $694,981 
Effective interest rate of the liability component - 2022 Notes4.75%
Effective interest rate - 2030 Notes1.53%
Convertible DateInitial Conversion Price per ShareInitial Conversion Rate per $1,000 Par ValueInitial Number of Shares
(in thousands)
2022 NotesFebruary 1, 2022$134.75 7.42 shares5,807 
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments The estimated fair value of the 2030 Notes and 2022 Notes at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 based on the closing trading price per $100 of the 2030 Notes and 2022 Notes were as follows (in thousands):
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
2022 Notes$687,049 $1,645,970 
2030 Notes$1,463,475 $— 
Schedule Of Note Hedge Transactions
PurchaseInitial SharesShares as of
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)
2022 Note Hedge$128,017 5,807 1,256 
Schedule of Warrants
ProceedsInitial SharesStrike PriceFirst Expiration DateShares as of
December 31, 2020
(in thousands)(in thousands)(in thousands)
2022 Warrants$54,071 5,807 $203.40 September 1, 20221,829 
v3.20.4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]  
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The components of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, consist of the following (in thousands):
 December 31,
 20202019
Foreign currency translation adjustment$87,127 $20,884 
Net unrealized gain on investments, net of tax
7,102 4,371 
        Accumulated other comprehensive income$94,229 $25,255 
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]  
Common Stock Outstanding and Reserved Shares of Common Stock for Future Issuance As of December 31, 2020, we had 195.8 million shares of common stock outstanding and had reserved shares of common stock for future issuance as follows (in thousands): 
 December 31, 2020
Stock plans:
Options outstanding522 
RSUs (1)
7,362 
Shares of common stock available for future grants:
2012 Equity Incentive Plan (2)
28,004 
2012 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (2)
9,755 
Total shares of common stock reserved for future issuance45,643 
 
(1)Represents the number of shares issuable upon settlement of outstanding RSUs and performance-based RSUs, as discussed under in Note 14.
(2)Refer to Note 14 for a description of these plans.
v3.20.4
Equity Awards (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Information About Outstanding And Vested Stock Options
A summary of stock option activity was as follows:
Number of
Shares 		Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price Per Share		Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term 		Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)(in years)(in thousands)
Outstanding at December 31, 20181,811 $46.55 
Granted161 $266.31 
Exercised(640)$34.61 $138,389 
Canceled(178)$86.02 
Outstanding at December 31, 20191,154 $77.70 
Exercised(621)$52.98 $199,094 
Canceled(11)$75.77 
Outstanding at December 31, 2020522 $107.14 4.5$231,456 
Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2020503 $100.95 4.4$225,866 
Vested and exercisable as of December 31, 2020391 $55.98 3.1$193,374 
Restricted Stock Unit Table
A summary of RSU activity was as follows:
Number of
Shares 		Weighted-Average Grant-Date Fair Value Per ShareAggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)(in thousands)
Outstanding at December 31, 201810,202 $121.84 
Granted5,338 $240.32 
Vested(5,487)$126.85 $1,369,918 
Forfeited(1,320)$145.34 
Outstanding at December 31, 20198,733 $185.39 
Granted3,643 $367.52 
Vested(4,250)$181.85 $1,759,996 
Forfeited(764)$221.84 
Outstanding at December 31, 20207,362 $274.23 $4,052,092 
Expected to vest as of December 31, 20206,408 $3,526,957 
v3.20.4
Stock-based Compensation (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]  
Estimated Weighted-average Fair Value per Share of Options Granted
The following assumptions were used in the Black-Scholes options pricing model to calculate our stock-based compensation on the date of the grant:
 Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
ESPP:
Expected volatility
30%- 60%
30%-49%
26%-31%
Expected term (in years)0.50.50.5
Risk-free interest rate
0.11%-2.04%
2.04%-2.46%
1.15%-2.22%
Dividend yield— %— %— %
v3.20.4
Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Calculation of Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share
The following tables present the calculation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders (in thousands, except per share data):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Numerator:
Net income (loss)$118,503 $626,698 $(26,704)
Denominator:
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic
193,096 186,466 177,846 
Weighted-average effect of potentially dilutive securities:
Common stock options547 1,109 — 
RSUs4,421 4,897 — 
2018 Warrants— 842 — 
2022 Notes842 2,737 — 
2022 Notes settlements1,931 — — 
2022 Warrants920 1,172 — 
Partial settlement of 2022 Warrants721 — — 
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted202,478 197,223 177,846 
Net income (loss) per share - basic$0.61 $3.36 $(0.15)
Net income (loss) per share - diluted$0.59 $3.18 $(0.15)
Summary of Potentially Dilutive Securities
Potentially dilutive securities that are not included in the calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share because doing so would be antidilutive are as follows (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Common stock options— 161 1,811 
Restricted stock units347 413 10,202 
ESPP obligations224 273 318 
2018 Warrants— — 7,783 
2022 Notes— — 5,807 
2022 Warrants— — 5,807 
Total potentially dilutive securities571 847 31,728 
v3.20.4
Income Taxes (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Components of Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes
The components of income (loss) before income taxes by U.S. and foreign jurisdictions were as follows (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
United States$11,940 $(48,558)$(153,290)
Foreign137,245 115,743 114,266 
Total$149,185 $67,185 $(39,024)
Components of Provision for Income Taxes
The provision for (benefit from) income taxes consists of the following (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Current provision:
Federal$— $391 $(336)
State285 204 163 
Foreign53,055 15,657 22,204 
53,340 16,252 22,031 
Deferred provision:
Federal(5,241)(3,481)(2,026)
State(1,160)(882)(377)
Foreign(16,257)(571,402)(31,948)
(22,658)(575,765)(34,351)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes$30,682 $(559,513)$(12,320)
Reconciliation of Federal Income Tax Rate
The effective income tax rate differs from the federal statutory income tax rate applied to the income (loss) before income taxes due to the following (in thousands): 
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Tax computed at U.S. federal statutory rate$31,329 $14,109 $(8,195)
State taxes, net of federal benefit210 122 98 
Tax rate differential for international subsidiaries1,342 (5,005)(41,429)
Stock-based compensation(157,237)(108,023)(93,073)
Tax credits(63,716)(51,237)(44,695)
Foreign restructuring and amortization7,319 — (625,292)
Non-deductible expenses3,601 3,112 1,757 
Tax effects associated with Topic 606— — (23,073)
Executive Compensation24,503 19,289 8,308 
Valuation allowance183,331 (431,880)813,274 
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes$30,682 $(559,513)$(12,320)
Reconciliation of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
Significant components of our deferred tax assets are shown below (in thousands). A valuation allowance has been recognized to offset our deferred tax assets, as necessary, by the amount of any tax benefits that, based on evidence, are not expected to be realized.
 December 31,
 20202019
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards$882,256 $740,141 
Credit carryforwards235,572 171,856 
Lease liability114,639 108,224 
Depreciation and amortization635,904 577,599 
Other102,926 91,149 
Total deferred tax assets1,971,297 1,688,969 
Less valuation allowance(1,128,936)(918,596)
842,361 770,373 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Right of use asset(105,641)(101,091)
Other(70,805)(73,818)
Net deferred tax assets$665,915 $595,464 
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balance of Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balance of total unrecognized tax benefits is as follows (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
Balance, beginning period$36,789 $27,591 $27,648 
Tax positions taken in prior period:
Gross increases5,775 1,516 3,721 
Gross decreases(1,051)— (2,896)
Tax positions taken in current period:
Gross increases38,812 7,682 5,796 
Lapse of statute of limitations— — (1,078)
Settlements— — (5,600)
Balance, end of period$80,325 $36,789 $27,591 
v3.20.4
Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Operating Lease Liabilities
Maturities of operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020 are presented in the table below (in thousands):
Years Ending December 31,
2021$87,832 
202286,128 
202379,906 
202462,211 
202553,818 
Thereafter213,012 
Total operating lease payments582,907 
Less: imputed interest(87,892)
Present value of operating lease liabilities$495,015 
Schedule of Non-Cancelable Purchase Commitments Future minimum payments under our non-cancelable purchase commitments as of December 31, 2020 are presented in the table below (in thousands):
Purchase Obligations (1)
Years Ending December 31,
2021$119,990 
202291,156 
202331,145 
202423,444 
202513,494 
Thereafter4,001 
Total$283,230 

(1)Not included in the table above are certain purchase commitments related to our future annual Knowledge user conferences and other customer or sales conferences to be held in 2022 and future years. If we had canceled these contractual commitments as of December 31, 2020 we would have been obligated to pay cancellation penalties of approximately $36 million in aggregate.
v3.20.4
Information about Geographic Areas and Products (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract]  
Revenues by Geographic Area, Based on Billing Location of Customer
Revenues by geographic area, based on the location of our users, were as follows for the periods presented (in thousands):
 Year Ended December 31,
 202020192018
North America (1)
$2,959,827 $2,276,549 $1,725,255 
EMEA (2)
1,132,417 865,661 654,677 
Asia Pacific and other427,240 318,227 228,884 
Total revenues$4,519,484 $3,460,437 $2,608,816 
Schedule of Long Lived Assets by Geographic Area
Property and equipment, net by geographic area were as follows (in thousands):
 December 31,
20202019
Property and equipment, net:
North America (3)
$394,215 $269,754 
EMEA (2)
172,136 118,399 
Asia Pacific and other93,290 79,932 
Total property and equipment, net$659,641 $468,085 
 
(1)Revenues attributed to the United States were 94% of North America revenues for each of the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
(2)Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”)
(3)Property and equipment, net attributed to the United States were approximately 78% and 73% of property and equipment, net attributable to North America as of December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Schedule of Subscription Revenue by Products
Subscription revenues consist of the following (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
202020192018
Digital workflow products$3,749,118 $2,810,887 $2,111,702 
ITOM products536,679 444,192 309,611 
Total subscription revenues$4,285,797 $3,255,079 $2,421,313 
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Revenue Recognition (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Capitalized contract cost, amortization period 5 years    
Impairment loss $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Total subscription revenues      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Contract payment terms 30 days    
Professional services and other      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Contract payment terms 30 days    
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Investments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounting Policies [Abstract]    
Accrued interest, net of allowance for credit losses $ 13 $ 11
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Property and Equipment (Detail)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Building  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 39 years
Minimum | Computer equipment and software  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 3 years
Minimum | Furniture and fixtures  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 3 years
Maximum | Computer equipment and software  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 5 years
Maximum | Furniture and fixtures  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 7 years
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Capitalized Software Development Costs (Details) - Computer software, intangible asset
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Minimum  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 3 years
Maximum  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Property and equipment, useful life (in years) 5 years
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Minimum  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Useful Life 4 years
Maximum  
Property and Equipment [Line Items]  
Useful Life 11 years
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Advertising Costs (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]      
Advertising costs $ 172 $ 115 $ 65
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Stock-based Compensation (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
2012 Employee Stock Purchase Plan  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Award offering period 6 months
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Concentration of Credit Risk and Significant Customers (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts      
Balance at Beginning of Year $ 6,196 $ 4,649 $ 3,115
Additions: Charged to Operations 2,544 1,284 1,255
Additions: Charged to Deferred Revenue 1,382 1,306 1,177
Less: Write-offs 1,514 1,043 898
Balance at End of Year $ 8,608 $ 6,196 $ 4,649
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncement and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jan. 01, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Operating lease, right-of-use asset $ 454,218 $ 402,428  
Operating lease, liability $ 495,015    
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02      
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]      
Operating lease, right-of-use asset     $ 335,000
Operating lease, liability     $ 363,000
v3.20.4
Investments - Summary of Investments (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost $ 2,872,059 $ 1,921,133
Gross Unrealized Gains 11,507 7,735
Gross Unrealized Losses (318) (219)
Estimated Fair Value 2,883,248 1,928,649
Commercial paper    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 405,429 101,416
Gross Unrealized Gains 79 83
Gross Unrealized Losses (13) (9)
Estimated Fair Value 405,495 101,490
Corporate notes and bonds    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 2,298,306 1,654,166
Gross Unrealized Gains 10,478 7,360
Gross Unrealized Losses (298) (196)
Estimated Fair Value 2,308,486 1,661,330
Certificates of deposit    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 23,081 38,007
Gross Unrealized Gains 8 38
Gross Unrealized Losses 0 0
Estimated Fair Value 23,089 38,045
U.S. government and agency securities    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 145,243 127,544
Gross Unrealized Gains 942 254
Gross Unrealized Losses (7) (14)
Estimated Fair Value $ 146,178 $ 127,784
v3.20.4
Investments - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract]    
Contractual maturities term (maximum) 36 months  
Debt and equity investments in privately-held companies included in other assets $ 28 $ 22
v3.20.4
Investments - Maturities of Available-for-Sale Investments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Abstract]    
Due within 1 year $ 1,415,242  
Due in 1 year through 5 years 1,468,006  
Total $ 2,883,248 $ 1,928,649
v3.20.4
Investments - Fair Values and Gross Unrealized Losses of Available-for-Sale Securities Aggregated by Investment Category (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, fair value $ 637,091 $ 280,570
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, gross unrealized losses (318) (204)
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, fair value 0 16,264
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, gross unrealized losses 0 (15)
Continuous loss position, total, fair value 637,091 296,834
Continuous loss position, total, gross unrealized losses (318) (219)
Commercial paper    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, fair value 94,980 20,752
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, gross unrealized losses (13) (9)
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, fair value 0 0
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, gross unrealized losses 0 0
Continuous loss position, total, fair value 94,980 20,752
Continuous loss position, total, gross unrealized losses (13) (9)
Corporate notes and bonds    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, fair value 534,126 242,012
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, gross unrealized losses (298) (181)
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, fair value 0 16,264
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, gross unrealized losses 0 (15)
Continuous loss position, total, fair value 534,126 258,276
Continuous loss position, total, gross unrealized losses (298) (196)
U.S. government and agency securities    
Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items]    
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, fair value 7,985 17,806
Continuous loss position, less than 12 months, gross unrealized losses (7) (14)
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, fair value 0 0
Continuous loss position, 12 months or greater, gross unrealized losses 0 0
Continuous loss position, total, fair value 7,985 17,806
Continuous loss position, total, gross unrealized losses $ (7) $ (14)
v3.20.4
Fair Value Measurements (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total $ 4,190,620 $ 2,502,019
Cash equivalents | Money market funds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 1,305,372 486,982
Cash equivalents | Commercial paper    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents   86,388
Cash equivalents | U.S. government and agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 2,000  
Marketable securities | Commercial paper    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 405,495 101,490
Marketable securities | Corporate notes and bonds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 2,308,486 1,661,330
Marketable securities | Certificates of deposit    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 23,089 38,045
Marketable securities | U.S. government and agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 146,178 127,784
Level 1    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total 1,305,372 486,982
Level 1 | Cash equivalents | Money market funds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 1,305,372 486,982
Level 1 | Cash equivalents | Commercial paper    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents   0
Level 1 | Cash equivalents | U.S. government and agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 0  
Level 1 | Marketable securities | Commercial paper    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 0 0
Level 1 | Marketable securities | Corporate notes and bonds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 0 0
Level 1 | Marketable securities | Certificates of deposit    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 0 0
Level 1 | Marketable securities | U.S. government and agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 0 0
Level 2    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total 2,885,248 2,015,037
Level 2 | Cash equivalents | Money market funds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 0 0
Level 2 | Cash equivalents | Commercial paper    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents   86,388
Level 2 | Cash equivalents | U.S. government and agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Cash equivalents 2,000  
Level 2 | Marketable securities | Commercial paper    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 405,495 101,490
Level 2 | Marketable securities | Corporate notes and bonds    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 2,308,486 1,661,330
Level 2 | Marketable securities | Certificates of deposit    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments 23,089 38,045
Level 2 | Marketable securities | U.S. government and agency securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Investments $ 146,178 $ 127,784
v3.20.4
Business Combinations (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Jul. 01, 2020
USD ($)
Feb. 07, 2020
USD ($)
Feb. 06, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2018
USD ($)
company
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Goodwill       $ 240,764 $ 156,756 $ 148,845
Developed technology            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Weighted average useful life (in years)       5 years 1 month    
Sweagle NV            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Payments to acquire businesses $ 25,000          
Developed technology 8,000          
Net deferred tax liabilities 2,000          
Goodwill 19,000          
Sweagle NV | Developed technology            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Developed technology $ 7,000          
Rupert Labs, Inc.            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Payments to acquire businesses   $ 33,000        
Net deferred tax liabilities   5,000        
Goodwill   15,000        
Rupert Labs, Inc. | Developed technology            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Developed technology   $ 22,000        
Loom Systems Ltd.            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Payments to acquire businesses     $ 58,000      
Net deferred tax liabilities     4,000      
Goodwill     40,000      
Loom Systems Ltd. | Developed technology            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Developed technology     $ 17,000      
2019 Business Combination            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Payments to acquire businesses         $ 8,000  
2018 Business Combinations            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Payments to acquire businesses           38,000
Net deferred tax liabilities           2,000
Goodwill           $ 26,000
Number of business combinations | company           4
Goodwill, tax deductible amount           $ 8,000
2018 Business Combinations | Developed technology            
Business Acquisition [Line Items]            
Developed technology           $ 14,000
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Goodwill, beginning balance $ 156,756 $ 148,845
Goodwill acquired 74,172 2,246
Foreign currency translation adjustments 9,836 5,665
Goodwill, ending balance $ 240,764 $ 156,756
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross carrying amount $ 294,848 $ 249,070
Less: accumulated amortization (141,481) (105,220)
Intangible assets, net 153,367 143,850
Developed technology    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross carrying amount 226,290 177,746
Patents    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross carrying amount 64,942 67,730
Other    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross carrying amount $ 3,616 $ 3,594
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Intangible assets, net   $ 73  
Amortization expense $ 46 35 $ 25
Developed technology      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Intangible assets, net $ 7 61  
Weighted average useful life (in years) 5 years 1 month    
Patents      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Intangible assets, net $ 7 $ 11  
Weighted average useful life (in years) 9 years    
Patents | Minimum      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted average useful life (in years)   5 years  
Patents | Maximum      
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]      
Weighted average useful life (in years)   8 years  
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Schedule of Estimated Future Amortization of Intangible Assets (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
2021 $ 42,466
2022 38,253
2023 32,962
2024 27,322
2025 5,228
Thereafter 7,136
Total future amortization expense $ 153,367
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment, Net (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Property and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property and equipment, gross $ 1,291,639 $ 925,451
Less: Accumulated depreciation (631,998) (457,366)
Property and equipment, net 659,641 468,085
Computer equipment    
Property and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property and equipment, gross 974,319 680,160
Computer software    
Property and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property and equipment, gross 71,688 59,511
Leasehold and other improvements    
Property and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property and equipment, gross 167,697 125,299
Furniture and fixtures    
Property and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property and equipment, gross 68,678 53,651
Construction in progress    
Property and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property and equipment, gross $ 9,257 $ 6,830
v3.20.4
Property and Equipment - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]      
Depreciation $ 225 $ 168 $ 123
v3.20.4
Derivative Contracts (Details) - Not Designated as Hedging Instrument - Foreign currency derivative contracts - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative notional amount $ 583,000 $ 358,000
Level 2 | Prepaid expenses and other current assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets 7,541 2,237
Level 2 | Accrued expenses and other current liabilities    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Liabilities $ 9,879 $ 1,362
v3.20.4
Deferred Revenue and Performance Obligations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]    
Deferred revenue recognized $ 2.1 $ 1.6
Remaining non-cancelable performance obligations $ 8.9  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2021-01-01    
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]    
Performance obligations expected to be satisfied (percent) 49.00%  
Remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period 12 months  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2022-01-01    
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]    
Performance obligations expected to be satisfied (percent) 51.00%  
Remaining performance obligation, expected timing of satisfaction, period  
v3.20.4
Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]    
Accrued payroll $ 371,861 $ 230,682
Taxes payable 58,466 38,326
Other employee related liabilities 91,654 74,853
Other 146,112 117,542
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities $ 668,093 $ 461,403
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Notes Payable (Details) - USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
Aug. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jun. 30, 2017
2030 Notes        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal $ 1,500,000,000 $ 1,500,000,000    
Less: debt issuance cost and debt discount, net of amortization (17,703,000)      
Net carrying amount $ 1,482,297,000      
Effective interest rate (in percent) 1.53%      
2022 Notes        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal $ 169,224,000   $ 782,491,000 $ 782,500,000
Less: debt issuance cost and debt discount, net of amortization (11,368,000)   (87,510,000)  
Net carrying amount $ 157,856,000   $ 694,981,000  
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details)
shares in Millions
 1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Aug. 11, 2020
USD ($)
shares
Nov. 01, 2018
USD ($)
Aug. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Sep. 30, 2018
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
day
trading_day
shares
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
shares
Dec. 31, 2018
USD ($)
shares
Jun. 30, 2017
USD ($)
Nov. 30, 2013
USD ($)
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Estimated fair value of the note based on the closing trading price           $ 100 $ 100      
Percentage of purchase price of notes which should be paid upon fundamental change (percent)           100.00%        
Benefit from exercise of Note Hedge           $ 1,378,984,000   $ 766,857,000    
Net proceeds from unwind of 2022 Note Hedge           1,105,542,000 0 0    
Loss on extinguishment of debt           $ (46,611,000) $ 0 $ 0    
Warrant exercise period | trading_day           60        
Stock Price Trigger Measurement                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Number of days out of 30 that common stock price exceeded conversion price, days | day           20        
Number of consecutive trading days in a period | day           30        
Threshold percentage of stock price trigger (percent)           130.00%        
Notes Price Trigger Measurement                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Number of consecutive trading days in a period | day           5        
Threshold percentage of stock price trigger (percent)           98.00%        
Conversion of notes base conversion price           $ 1,000        
2022 Warrants                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Number of shares to be issued upon exercise of the Warrants (in shares) | shares 2.3                  
Number of potential securities issued upon automatic exercise of the Warrants (in shares) | shares           1.1        
2018 Warrants                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Number of shares to be issued upon exercise of the Warrants (in shares) | shares             4.3 1.3    
2018 Note Hedge                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Noncash benefit received from note hedges               $ 767,000,000    
2022 Notes                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Contractual interest rate, notes                 0.00%  
Notes, par value           $ 169,224,000 $ 782,491,000   $ 782,500,000  
Net amount recorded in equity                 $ 160,000,000  
Settlement of principal           116,000,000        
Conversion option settlement, fair value adjustments           275,000,000        
Benefit from exercise of Note Hedge           273,000,000        
Repurchased face amount $ 497,000,000                  
Net proceeds from unwind of 2022 Note Hedge 1,100,000,000                  
Extinguishment of debt, amount, equity component 493,000,000                  
Extinguishment of debt, amount, debt component 1,100,000,000                  
Loss on extinguishment of debt (39,000,000)                  
Unamortized debt discount and unamortized debt issuance costs $ 43,000,000                  
Reduction of aggregate number of call options (in shares) | shares 3.7                  
2022 Notes | Scenario, Forecast                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Settlement of principal       $ 34,000,000            
2018 Notes                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Contractual interest rate, notes                   0.00%
Notes, par value                   $ 575,000,000
Settlement of principal   $ 162,000,000     $ 413,000,000          
Conversion option settlement, fair value adjustments               $ 773,000,000    
2030 Notes                    
Debt Conversion [Line Items]                    
Contractual interest rate, notes     1.40%              
Debt term     10 years              
Notes, par value     $ 1,500,000,000     $ 1,500,000,000        
Percentage of principle issued     0.9963              
Debt issuance costs     $ 13,000,000              
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Fair Value (Details) - Level 2 - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
2022 Notes    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Fair value $ 687,049 $ 1,645,970
2030 Notes    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Fair value $ 1,463,475 $ 0
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Conversion (Details) - 2022 Notes
shares in Thousands
 2 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2017
shares
$ / shares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]  
Initial Conversion Price per Share (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 134.75
Initial Conversion Rate per $1,000 Par Value (in USD per share) 0.00742
Initial Number of Shares (in shares) | shares 5,807
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Note Hedges (Details) - 2022 Note Hedge
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
shares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]  
Purchase | $ $ 128,017
Shares (in shares) 5,807
Shares as of December 31, 2020 (in shares) 1,256
v3.20.4
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Warrants (Details) - 2022 Warrants
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Debt Instrument [Line Items]  
Proceeds | $ $ 54,071
Shares (in shares) 5,807,000
Strike Price (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 203.40
Shares as of December 31, 2020 (in shares) 1,829,000
v3.20.4
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive income $ 2,834,481 $ 2,127,941 $ 1,111,199 $ 778,744
Foreign currency translation adjustment        
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive income 87,127 20,884    
Net unrealized gain on investments, net of tax        
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive income 7,102 4,371    
Accumulated other comprehensive income        
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive income $ 94,229 $ 25,255 $ (4,035) $ 5,767
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - Narrative (Detail) - shares
 12 Months Ended
Aug. 11, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]        
Shares of common stock, authorized (in shares)   600,000,000.0 600,000,000  
Common stock, shares, outstanding (in shares)   195,844,000 189,461,000  
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)   10,000,000 10,000,000  
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)   0 0  
2022 Warrants        
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]        
Number of shares to be issued upon exercise of the Warrants (in shares) 2,300,000      
2018 Warrants        
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]        
Number of shares to be issued upon exercise of the Warrants (in shares)     4,300,000 1,300,000
Common Stock        
Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items]        
Common stock issued under employee stock plans (in shares)   4,098,000 5,003,000 5,899,000
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity - Outstanding and Reserved Shares of Common Stock for Future Issuance (Detail) - shares
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Options outstanding (in shares) 522,000 1,154,000 1,811,000
Total reserved shares of common stock for future issuance (in shares) 45,643,000    
2012 Equity Incentive Plan      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Total reserved shares of common stock for future issuance (in shares) 28,004,000    
2012 Employee Stock Purchase Plan      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Total reserved shares of common stock for future issuance (in shares) 9,755,000    
Common stock options      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Options outstanding (in shares) 522,000    
Restricted stock units      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
RSUs (in shares) 7,362,000 8,733,000 10,202,000
v3.20.4
Equity Awards - Narrative (Detail)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
incentive_plan
shares
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 31, 2018
USD ($)
shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Number of equity incentive plans | incentive_plan 2    
Total intrinsic value of options exercised $ 199,094,000 $ 138,389,000 $ 204,000,000
Number of shares granted (in shares) | shares 0 161,000 0
Weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted (in USD per share) | $ / shares   $ 266.31  
Fair value of stock options vested $ 7,000,000 $ 8,000,000 $ 12,000,000
Number of shares cancelled (in shares) | shares   171,912  
Total unrecognized compensation cost, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, related to unvested stock options $ 11,000,000    
Common stock options      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Weighted-average remaining vesting period 3 years 10 months 24 days    
Restricted stock units with service condition only      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Number of shares outstanding (in shares) | shares 7,000,000.0    
Restricted stock units with service and performance conditions      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Number of shares outstanding (in shares) | shares 400,000    
Restricted stock units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Weighted-average remaining vesting period 2 years 8 months 12 days    
Number of shares outstanding (in shares) | shares 7,362,000 8,733,000 10,202,000
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested $ 1,759,996 $ 1,369,918 $ 932,000,000
Unrecognized compensation expense expected to be recognized $ 1,800,000,000    
Performance shares      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Vesting term (in years) 2 years    
Performance target (in percent) 100.00%    
Award vesting percentage 33.00%    
Incremental expense $ 29,000,000    
Allocated share-based compensation expense $ 70,000,000 $ 68,000,000 $ 92,000,000
Minimum | Performance shares      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Performance target (in percent) 0.00%    
Maximum | Performance shares      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Performance target (in percent) 180.00%    
2012 Equity Incentive Plan      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Number of shares of common stock outstanding, increase, percentage 5.00%    
2012 Equity Incentive Plan | Restricted stock units with service condition only      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Vesting term (in years) 4 years    
2012 Employee Stock Purchase Plan      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Number of shares of common stock outstanding, increase, percentage 1.00%    
Common stock purchase price, percentage 85.00%    
Award offering period 6 months    
2005 Stock Plan and 2012 Plan      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Stock options granted to new employees vest, percentage per annum 25.00%    
Requisite service period to vest employment continuation period 3 years    
Options granted, exercisable period 10 years    
v3.20.4
Equity Awards - Summary of Stock Option Activity (Detail) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Number of Shares      
Number of shares, outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) 1,154,000 1,811,000  
Number of shares granted (in shares) 0 161,000 0
Number of shares, exercised (in shares) (621,000) (640,000)  
Number of shares, canceled (in shares) (11,000) (178,000)  
Number of shares, outstanding, ending balance (in shares) 522,000 1,154,000 1,811,000
Number of shares, vested and expected to vest (in shares) 503,000    
Number of shares, vested and exercisable (in shares) 391,000    
Weighted- Average Exercise Price Per Share      
Weighted-average exercise price, outstanding, beginning balance (in USD per share) $ 77.70 $ 46.55  
Weighted-average exercise price, granted (in USD per share)   266.31  
Weighted-average exercise price, exercised (in USD per share) 52.98 34.61  
Weighted-average exercise price, canceled (in USD per share) 75.77 86.02  
Weighted-average exercise price, outstanding, ending balance (in USD per share) 107.14 $ 77.70 $ 46.55
Weighted-average exercise price, vested and expected to vest (in USD per share) 100.95    
Weighted-average exercise price, vested and exercisable (in USD per share) $ 55.98    
Weighted-average remaining contractual life (in years) 4 years 6 months    
Weighted-average remaining contractual term, vested and expected to vest (in years) 4 years 4 months 24 days    
Weighted-average remaining contractual term, vested and exercisable (in years) 3 years 1 month 6 days    
Total intrinsic value of options exercised $ 199,094 $ 138,389 $ 204,000
Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding 231,456    
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested and expected to vest 225,866    
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested and exercisable $ 193,374    
v3.20.4
Equity Awards - Restricted Stock Unit Table (Details) - Restricted stock units - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Number of Shares      
Number of shares outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) 8,733,000 10,202,000  
Number of shares, granted (in shares) 3,643,000 5,338,000  
Number of shares, vested (in shares) (4,250,000) (5,487,000)  
Number of shares, forfeited (in shares) (764,000) (1,320,000)  
Number of shares outstanding, ending balance (in shares) 7,362,000 8,733,000 10,202,000
Expected to vest as of December 31, 2020 (in shares) 6,408,000    
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value      
Weighted-average grant date fair value, outstanding, beginning balance (in USD per share) $ 185.39 $ 121.84  
Weighted-average grant date fair value, granted (in USD per share) 367.52 240.32  
Weighted-average grant date fair value, vested (in USD per share) 181.85 126.85  
Weighted-average grant date fair value, repurchased (in USD per share) 221.84 145.34  
Weighted-average grant date fair value, outstanding, ending balance (in USD per share) $ 274.23 $ 185.39 $ 121.84
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested $ 1,759,996 $ 1,369,918 $ 932,000,000
Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding 4,052,092    
Aggregated intrinsic value, expected to vest $ 3,526,957    
v3.20.4
Stock-based Compensation (Detail)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Dividend yield (in percent) 0.00%    
ESPP obligations      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Expected volatility, minimum 30.00% 30.00% 26.00%
Expected volatility, maximum 60.00% 49.00% 31.00%
Expected term (in years) 6 months 6 months 6 months
Risk-free interest rate. minimum 0.11% 2.04% 1.15%
Risk-free interest rate, maximum 2.04% 2.46% 2.22%
Dividend yield (in percent) 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
v3.20.4
Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Calculation of Basic and Diluted Net Loss Per Share Attributable to Common Stockholders (Detail) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Numerator:      
Net income (loss) $ 118,503 $ 626,698 $ (26,704)
Denominator:      
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic (in shares) 193,096 186,466 177,846
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted (in shares) 202,478 197,223 177,846
Net income (loss) per share - basic (in USD per share) $ 0.61 $ 3.36 $ (0.15)
Net income (loss) per share - diluted (in USD per share) $ 0.59 $ 3.18 $ (0.15)
Common stock options      
Denominator:      
Potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 547 1,109 0
Restricted stock units      
Denominator:      
Potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 4,421 4,897 0
2022 Notes | 2022 Notes      
Denominator:      
Notes (in shares) 842 2,737 0
Notes settlements (in shares) 1,931 0 0
2018 Warrants | Warrants      
Denominator:      
Warrants (in shares) 0 842 0
2022 Warrants | Warrants      
Denominator:      
Warrants (in shares) 920 1,172 0
Partial settlement of warrants (in shares) 721 0 0
v3.20.4
Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Summary of Potentially Dilutive Securities (Detail) - shares
shares in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 571 847 31,728
Common stock options      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 0 161 1,811
Restricted stock units      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 347 413 10,202
ESPP obligations      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 224 273 318
2022 Notes | Convertible senior notes      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 0 0 5,807
2018 Warrants | Warrants      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 0 0 7,783
2022 Warrants | Warrants      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Total potentially dilutive securities (in shares) 0 0 5,807
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Components of Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
United States $ 11,940 $ (48,558) $ (153,290)
Foreign 137,245 115,743 114,266
Income (loss) before income taxes $ 149,185 $ 67,185 $ (39,024)
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Components of Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Current provision:      
Federal $ 0 $ 391 $ (336)
State 285 204 163
Foreign 53,055 15,657 22,204
Total current provision 53,340 16,252 22,031
Deferred provision:      
Federal (5,241) (3,481) (2,026)
State (1,160) (882) (377)
Foreign (16,257) (571,402) (31,948)
Total deferred provision (22,658) (575,765) (34,351)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes $ 30,682 $ (559,513) $ (12,320)
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Federal Income Tax Rate (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
Tax computed at U.S. federal statutory rate $ 31,329 $ 14,109 $ (8,195)
State taxes, net of federal benefit 210 122 98
Tax rate differential for international subsidiaries 1,342 (5,005) (41,429)
Stock-based compensation (157,237) (108,023) (93,073)
Tax credits (63,716) (51,237) (44,695)
Foreign restructuring and amortization 7,319 0 (625,292)
Non-deductible expenses 3,601 3,112 1,757
Tax effects associated with Topic 606 0 0 (23,073)
Executive Compensation 24,503 19,289 8,308
Valuation allowance 183,331 (431,880) 813,274
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes $ 30,682 $ (559,513) $ (12,320)
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Deferred tax assets:    
Net operating loss carryforwards $ 882,256 $ 740,141
Credit carryforwards 235,572 171,856
Lease liability 114,639 108,224
Depreciation and amortization 635,904 577,599
Other 102,926 91,149
Total deferred tax assets 1,971,297 1,688,969
Less valuation allowance (1,128,936) (918,596)
Deferred tax assets net 842,361 770,373
Deferred tax liabilities:    
Right of use asset (105,641) (101,091)
Other (70,805) (73,818)
Net deferred tax assets $ 665,915 $ 595,464
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Income Taxes [Line Items]        
Operating loss carryforward $ 3,400,000      
Tax credit carryforwards 235,572 $ 171,856    
Tax credit carryforwards 2,000,000      
Income tax benefit 16,257 571,402 $ 31,948  
Total unrecognized tax benefit 80,325 36,789 27,591 $ 27,648
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate 20,000      
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax interest and penalties accrued 2,000 1,000    
Federal        
Income Taxes [Line Items]        
Tax credit carryforwards 184,000      
State        
Income Taxes [Line Items]        
Tax credit carryforwards 133,000      
Foreign Tax Authority        
Income Taxes [Line Items]        
Valuation allowance (decrease) increase $ 210,000 (424,000) 760,000  
Increase in deferred tax assets related to foreign restructuring     $ 590,000  
Revenue Commissioners, Ireland | Foreign Tax Authority        
Income Taxes [Line Items]        
Income tax benefit   $ 574,000    
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balance of Total Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Reconciliation of beginning and ending balance of total unrecognized tax benefits      
Balance, beginning period $ 36,789 $ 27,591 $ 27,648
Gross increases - tax positions in prior year 5,775 1,516 3,721
Gross decreases - tax positions in prior period (1,051) 0 (2,896)
Gross increases - tax positions in current period 38,812 7,682 5,796
Lapse of statute of limitations 0 0 (1,078)
Settlements 0 0 (5,600)
Balance, end of period $ 80,325 $ 36,789 $ 27,591
v3.20.4
Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Aug. 31, 2020
Jun. 30, 2017
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]        
Operating lease costs $ 83,000,000 $ 64,000,000    
Operating lease liabilities, payments 59,000,000 44,000,000    
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities $ 112,000,000 115,000,000    
Weighted-average remaining lease term 8 years 6 months      
Weighted-average discount rate 3.50%      
Undiscounted cash flows $ 342,000,000      
Unrecognized tax benefits 20,000,000      
Letters of credit 21,000,000      
2022 Notes        
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]        
Principal 169,224,000 $ 782,491,000   $ 782,500,000
2030 Notes        
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]        
Principal $ 1,500,000,000   $ 1,500,000,000  
Minimum        
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]        
Operating lease terms 4 years      
Maximum        
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]        
Operating lease terms 14 years      
v3.20.4
Commitments and Contingencies - Annual Future Minimum Payments Under Operating Leases / Facility Exit Obligation (Detail)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
2021 $ 87,832
2022 86,128
2023 79,906
2024 62,211
2025 53,818
Thereafter 213,012
Total operating lease payments 582,907
Less: imputed interest (87,892)
Present value of operating lease liabilities 495,015
Purchase Obligations  
2021 119,990
2022 91,156
2023 31,145
2024 23,444
2025 13,494
Thereafter 4,001
Total 283,230
Potential cancellation penalty $ 36,000
v3.20.4
Information about Geographic Areas and Products - Revenues by Geographic Area (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total revenues $ 4,519,484 $ 3,460,437 $ 2,608,816
North America      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total revenues 2,959,827 2,276,549 1,725,255
EMEA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total revenues 1,132,417 865,661 654,677
Asia Pacific and other      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Total revenues $ 427,240 $ 318,227 $ 228,884
v3.20.4
Information about Geographic Areas and Products - Property and Equipment, Net by Geographic Area (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Property and equipment, net $ 659,641 $ 468,085  
Percentage of U.S. Revenues in North America 94.00% 94.00% 94.00%
Percentage of U.S. net property and equipment in North America 78.00% 73.00%  
North America      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Property and equipment, net $ 394,215 $ 269,754  
EMEA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Property and equipment, net 172,136 118,399  
Asia Pacific and other      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Property and equipment, net $ 93,290 $ 79,932  
v3.20.4
Information about Geographic Areas and Products - Subscription Revenues (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Subscription revenues $ 4,519,484 $ 3,460,437 $ 2,608,816
Digital workflow products      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Subscription revenues 3,749,118 2,810,887 2,111,702
ITOM products      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Subscription revenues 536,679 444,192 309,611
Total subscription revenues      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Subscription revenues $ 4,285,797 $ 3,255,079 $ 2,421,313
v3.20.4
Subsequent Events (Details)
$ in Millions
Jan. 08, 2021
USD ($)
Subsequent Event | Element AI Inc.  
Subsequent Event [Line Items]  
Payments to acquire businesses $ 230
v3.20.4
Label Element Value
Restricted Cash, Current us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent $ 2,213,000
Restricted Cash, Current us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent 2,334,000
Restricted Cash, Current us-gaap_RestrictedCashCurrent $ 2,636,000