Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Preferred shares - par value Preferred Stock, No Par Value Preferred shares - without par value, authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred shares - without par value, outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common shares - par value Common Stock, No Par Value Common shares - without par value, authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common shares - without par value, issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common shares - without par value, outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock - shares Treasury Stock, Shares Income Statement [Abstract] Tax benefit (expense), pension liability Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Tax benefit (expense), unrealized gain (loss) on hedging activities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Accounting Policies [Abstract] Consolidation [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock Compensation [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Comprehensvie Income (Loss) [Policy Text Block] Other Comprehensvie Income Loss Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Comprehensvie Income Loss Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash Equivalents [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Receivables [Policy Text Block] Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Software Development Costs [Policy Text Block] Research, Development, and Computer Software, Policy [Policy Text Block] Internal Use Software [Policy Text Block] Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangibles [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity-Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Postemployment Benefits [Policy Text Block] Postemployment Benefit Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Government Grants [Policy Text Block] Government Grants [Policy Text Block] Government Grants [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Gain on sale of interests in the Cellular Partnerships Equity Method Investment, Realized Gain (Loss) on Disposal Gain on sale of business Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Asset impairment Asset Impairment Charges Deferred income tax expense (benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Earnings from Cellular Partnerships, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Distributions from Cellular Partnerships Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Stock compensation expense Share-based Compensation Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Change in receivables Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Change in other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Change in deferred charges, net Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Charges Change in other assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Change in payables and other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accounts Payable Other, net Increase Decrease In Other Net Increase Decrease In Other Net Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of interests in the Cellular Partnerships Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Proceeds from disposition of assets Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from disposition of business Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Payments to Acquire Trading Securities Held-for-investment Payments to Acquire Trading Securities Held-for-investment Purchases of available-for-sale securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repayments of credit facilities and other debt, net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Repurchase of common shares Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in financing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Income taxes paid, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Including Additional Paid in Capital [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Balance (shares) Shares, Issued Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Issuance of common shares (shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Issuance of common shares Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Treasury shares issued for share-based plans, net Stock Issued During Period, Value, Treasury Stock Reissued Tax related to share-based arrangements, net of excess tax benefits Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Stock option exercises Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation and Exercise of Stock Options Equity component of 2029 Convertible Debentrues, net of deferred tax liability Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Repurchase of common shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Amortization of stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Balance (shares) Balance Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Line of Credit [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Asset Securitization Facility [Member] Asset Securitization Facility [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] 5.75% Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] 4.875% Unsecured Senior Notes [Member] Unsecured Debt [Member] Debt Instrument Debt Instrument [Line Items] Revolving credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding 2029 Convertible debt Convertible Debt Capital Lease Obligations Capital Lease Obligations Accounts Receivable Securitization Accounts Receivable Securitization Amount borrowed under the asset securitization facility as of the balance sheet date Other Long-term Debt Other Long-term Debt Total debt Long-term Debt Less current maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Income Tax Contingencies Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Building [Member] Software [Member] Equipment [Member] Software Development [Member] Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Owned By AT&T [Member] Owned By AT&T [Member] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Customer Management [Member] Customer Management [Member] Information Management [Member] Information Management [Member] Cincinnati SMSA Limited Partnership [Member] Cincinnati SMSA Limited Partnership [Member] Cincinnati SMSA Tower Holdings LLC [Member] Cincinnati SMSA Tower Holdings LLC [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Investment Percentage To Account For Equity Method Investment Percentage To Account For Equity Method Investment Percentage To Account For Equity Method Percent Of Total Revenues Percent Of Total Revenues Percent Of Total Revenues Sources Of Revenue (sources) Sources Of Revenue Sources Of Revenue Percent Of Revenue Derived From Agents Percent Of Revenue Derived From Agents Percent Of Revenue Derived From Agents Percent Of Revenue From Professional And Consulting Revenues Percent Of Revenue From Professional And Consulting Revenues Percent Of Revenue From Professional And Consulting Revenues Percent Of Revenue From License And Other Revenues Percent Of Revenue From License And Other Revenues Percent Of Revenue From License And Other Revenues Percent Of Revenue From Data Processing Percent Of Revenue From Data Processing Percent Of Revenue From Data Processing Number Of Business Segments Number Of Business Segments Number Of Business Segments Minimum Percent Likely To Be Recognized To Measure Tax Benefit Minimum Percent Likely To Be Recognized To Measure Tax Benefit Minimum Percent Likely To Be Recognized To Measure Tax Benefit Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Number Of Days Receivables Are Generally Due Number Of Days Receivables Are Generally Due Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Average Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Capitalized Computer Software, Period Increase (Decrease) Capitalized Computer Software, Period Increase (Decrease) Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Term Of Government Grant Term Of Government Grant Term Of Derivative Term Of Derivative Schedule Of Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Schedule of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Text Block] Schedule of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Text Block] Schedule Of Future Minimum Payments Schedule of Future Minimum Payments [Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Payments [Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Allocation and Classification in Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Current: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] United States federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] United States federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State and local Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred Total Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Earnings (Loss) Per Share And Shareholder's Equity [Abstract] Earnings(Loss) Per Share And Shareholder's Equity [Abstract] Schedule Of Reconciliation Of The Numerator And Denominator Of The Basic And Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share (EPS) Computations Schedule of Reconciliation of the Numerator and Denominator of the Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share (EPS) Computations [Text Block] Schedule of Reconciliation of the Numerator and Denominator of the Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share (EPS) Computations [Text Block] Share Repurchase Activity Share Repurchase Activity [Table Text Block] Share Repurchase Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] $0.0 to $11.55 [Member] Exercise Price Range 1 [Member] Exercise Price Range 1 [Member] $11.56 to $21.81 [Member] Exercise Price Range 2 [Member] Exercise Price Range 2 [Member] $21.82 to $22.22 [Member] Exercise Price Range 3 [Member] Exercise Price Range 3 [Member] $22.23 to $29.32 [Member] Exercise Price Range 4 [Member] Exercise Price Range 4 [Member] $29.33 to $29.53 [Member] Exercise Price Range 5 [Member] Exercise Price Range 5 [Member] $29.54 to $36.49 [Member] Exercise Price Range 6 [Member] Exercise Price Range 6 [Member] $36.50 to $36.67 [Member] Exercise Price Range 7 [Member] Exercise Price Range 7 [Member] $36.68 to $43.50 [Member] Exercise Price Range 9 [Member] Exercise Price Range 9 [Member] $43.51 and Over [Member] Exercise Price Range 10 [Member] Exercise Price Range 10 [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Stock option activity, outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding, beginning balance, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited/cancelled, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Outstanding, ending balance, shares Exercisable, ending balance, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Granted, weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised, weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited/cancelled, weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding, weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable, weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Outstanding, shares Exercisable, shares Range of Exercise Prices lower range limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Range of Exercies Prices upper range limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Restructuring Charges [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Restructuring [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring and Related Cost, by Type of Restructuring [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Severance Charge [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Facility Charge [Member] Facility Closing [Member] Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Segment [Domain] Professional Employees [Member] Professional Employees [Member] Professional Employees Non-Salaried Employees [Member] Non-Salaried Employees [Member] Non-Salaried Employees [Member] Customer Management [Member] Information Management [Member] Corporate [Member] Corporate [Member] Corporate [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan for 2010 [Member] Restructuring Plan for 2010 [Member] Restructuring Plan for 2010 [Member] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring liability, beginning balance Restructuring Reserve Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Restructuring liability payment Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Restructuring liability, ending balance Employees affected Employees affected Employees affected Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Income (loss) before tax Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, before Income Tax Gain (loss) on disposition Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income (loss) before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Expense (benefit) related to operations Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period Expense (benefit) related to gain (loss) on disposition Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation Income (Loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Asset by Major Class [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Software [Member] Trademarks [Member] Trademarks [Member] Customer Relationships And Other Intangibles [Member] Customer Relationships And Other Intangibles [Member] Customer Relationships and Other Intangibles [Member] Gross Carrying Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] 2012 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Background And Basis Of Presentation [Abstract] Background And Basis Of Presentation [Abstract] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Operations By Type [Axis] Operations By Type [Axis] Operations By Type [Domain] Operations By Type [Domain] Philippines and India [Member] Philippines and India [Member] India, Set to Expire March 2011 [Member] India, Set to Expire March 2011 [Member] Business Combination [Member] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign Foreign Country [Member] Earnings from continuing operations, foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Reduction in income tax benefit Reduction In Income Tax Benefit Reduction In Income Tax Benefit Income tax holiday Income Tax Holiday, Aggregate Dollar Amount Effective income tax rate recocilliation, tax holidays Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Holidays Valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Amount Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating loss carryforward with no expiration Operating Loss Carryforward With No Expiration Operating Loss Carryforward With No Expiration Tax credit carryforward Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Undistributed foreign earnings Deferred Tax Liabilities, Undistributed Foreign Earnings Liability for unrecognized tax benefits Liability for Uncertain Tax Positions, Noncurrent Accrued interest and penalties recorded in other long-term liabilities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized tax benefits that would affect income tax expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Interest and penalties share in unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Interest and penalties recognized Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Expense Expected change in unrecognized tax benefits, lower Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Lower Bound Expected change in unrecognized tax benefits, upper Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Estimated Range of Change, Upper Bound Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures [Member] Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures [Member] Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Antidilutive securities excluded from diluted EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Repurchase of shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Repurchase of shares, average price per share Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Aggregate principal amount convertible debentures Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate on unsecured senior notes Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Maturity date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Junior subordinated convertible debentures convertible conversion price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Junior subordinated convertible debentures convertible equity instruments in conversion Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Terms of Conversion Feature Debt Instrument, Convertible, Terms of Conversion Feature Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, With Voting Rights Preferred Stock, With Voting Rights Preferred Stock, With Voting Rights Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Postretirement Benefits, by Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Defined Benefit Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Common Collective Trusts [Member] Common Collective Trusts [Member] Common Stock [Member] Equity Funds [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures, Defined Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefits Plans [Member] Defined Benefit Plans [Member] Cash Balance Plan [Member] Cash Balance Plan [Member] Cash Balance Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Unrealized losses relating to instruments still held at the reporting date Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Still Held Purchases Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements Fair value of plan assets at end of year Assets expected to be returned to the Company during 2012 Defined Benefit Plan, Amount and Timing of Assets Expected to be Returned to Employer During Following 12 Month Period Allocation of assets, equity securities Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Equity Securities Allocation of assets, debt securites Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Debt Securities Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Beginning Balance Goodwill Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Foreign currency and other Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation and Other Adjustments Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation and Other Adjustments Ending Balance Earnings (Loss) Per Share and Shareholder's Equity Stockholders Equity And Earnings Per Share Text Block Stockholders Equity And Earnings Per Share Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Fair Value Of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Effect Of Derivative Instruments On Consolidated Financial Statements Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Forward exchange contracts and options designated as hedging instruments included in Other Current Asset [Member] Other Non-Current Assets [Member] Other Non-Current Assets [Member] Forward exchange contracts and options designated as hedging instruments included in Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Forward exchange contracts and options designated as hedging instruments included in Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Long-Term Liabilities [Member] Other Long-Term Liabilities [Member] Forward exchange contracts and options designated as hedging instruments included in Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Forward exchange contracts and options designated as hedging instruments, assets Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Asset at Fair Value Forward exchange contracts and options designated as hedging instruments, liabilities Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value Schedule Of Results Included In Discontinued Operations Schedule of Results Included in Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Results Included in Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Assets and Liabilties [Table] Fair Value of Assets and Liabilties [Table] Fair Value of Assets and Liabilties Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Equity Funds [Member] Common Stock [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Estimate Of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] Fair value assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Foreign currency forward contracts (asset position) Derivative Assets Foreign currency forward contracts (liability position) Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Segment Information Schedule of Quarterly Financial Segment Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Segment Information [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Cincinnati SMSA Limited Partnership [Member] Cincinnati SMSA Tower Holdings LLC [Member] Earnings from Cellular Partnerships, net Transaction costs related to the sale of Convergys' interest in Cellular Partnerships Transaction Cost of Equity Method Investment Sold Transaction Cost of Equity Method Investment Sold Gain on sale of Convergys' interests in Cellular Partnerships Total earnings from Cellular Partnerships, net Earnings And Gains From Cellular Partnership This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of the investee, and includes the gain on the sale of the entity's interests in the investee to which the equity method of accounting is applied. 2011 Restructuring Plan [Member] 2011 Restructuring Plan [Member] Restructuring liability charge Restructuring Reserve, Period Expense Restructuring reserve accrual adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] New Credit Facility [Member] New Credit Facility [Member] New Credit Facility [Member] Prior Credit Facility [Member] Prior Credit Facility [Member] Prior Credit Facility [Member] Interest Coverage Ratio, EBITDA [Member] Interest Coverage Ratio, EBITDA [Member] Interest Coverage Ratio, EBITDA [Member] Interest Coverage Ratio, Consolidated Interest Expense [Member] Interest Coverage Ratio, Consolidated Interest Expense [Member] Interest Coverage Ratio, Consolidated Interest Expense [Member] Debt-to-EBITDA Ratio, Debt [Member] Debt-to-EBITDA Ratio, Debt [Member] Debt-to-EBITDA Ratio, Debt [Member] Debt-to-EBITDA Ratio, EBITDA [Member] Debt-to-EBITDA Ratio, EBITDA [Member] Debt-to-EBITDA Ratio, EBITDA [Member] Line of credit, maximum 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Restricted Stock [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Member Time-Based Restricted Stock [Member] Time-Based Restricted Stock [Member] Time-Based Restricted Stock [Member] Common share authorized under Convergys LTIP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders Stock options, common shares to be issued upon exercise Restricted stock units, common shares to be issed upon exercise Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Total stock, common shares to be issued upon exercise Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share Based Payment Award, Options and Equity Instruments Other than Options, Number The total number of common shares related to equity compensation plans (stock options and instruments other than 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Options approved, weighted average exercise price Options approved, common shares available, future issuance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Award Vesting Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Term of Award Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Term of Award Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Term of Award Award Maximum Time Until Unvested Performance Shares Are Forfieted Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Maximum Time Until Unvested Performance Shares Are Forfieted Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Maximum Time Until Unvested Performance Shares Are Forfieted Long-term incentive plan expense related to continuing operations Long-Term Incentive Plan Expense Related To Continuing Operations Long-Term Incentive Plan Expense Related To 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Options, Exercisable Weighted Average Fair Value Grant Date Aggregate intrinsic value, stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Recognized tax benefit from exercised stock Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Total grant date fair value of stock options vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Aggregate intrinsic value, stock options outstanding and exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Granted, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Restricted stock units granted, weighted average fair value at date of grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Payout range Share Based Compensation Award Target Percentage Rate Share Based Compensation Award Target Percentage Rate Total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted stock and restricted stock units Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted average recognition period (in years) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Weighted Average Recognition Period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Weighted Average Recognition Period Aggregate intrinsic value, non-vested restricted stock Share-Based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Restricted Stock Units, Total Intrinsic Value The total accumulated difference between fair values of 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Vesting date of performance-based restricted stock awards Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Award Vesting Date Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Award Vesting Date U.S. federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Permanent differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Permanent Differences Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Permanent Differences State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes International rate differential, including tax holidays Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential and Tax Holiday Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential and Tax Holiday Foreign valuation allowances Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Impairments Effective 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Deferred Expense Deferred gains (losses), net of tax Deferred gain on derivative instruments reclassified from OCI to earnings during the next the next twelve months, before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, before Tax Deferred gain on derivative instruments reclassified from OCI to earnings during next twelve months, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Net gain related to forward contracts Derivative Instruments, Gain Recognized in Income Net loss related to settlement of forward contracts Derivative Instruments, Loss Recognized in Income Net loss recognized, related to changes in fair value Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Loss Net gain recognized, related to changes in fair value Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain Aggregate fair value of derivative instruments in liability positions Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Aggregate fair value of collateral already posted Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Investment securities with a fair value, classified as trading securites Trading Securities Fair Value Of Asset Acquired Trading Securities Fair Value Of Asset Acquired Divestitures [Table] Divestitures [Table] Divestitures [Table] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Sale of business segment Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets Cash received from sale of business segment Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Note received in divestiture Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Value of principal of zero coupon note received in sale during second anniversary Value of Principal of Zero Coupon Note Received in Sale During Second Anniversary Value of Principal of Zero Coupon Note Received in Sale During Second Anniversary 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allocated for discontinued business segment included in continuing operations Cost allocated for discontinued business segment included in continuing operations Cost Allocated for Discontinued Business Segment Included in Continuing Operations Transition Service Agreement Period Transition Service Agreement Period Transition Service Agreement Period Revenue under transition services agreements subsequent to close of sale Discontinued Operation, Intercompany Amounts with Discontinued Operation before Disposal Transaction, Revenue Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Additional Financial Information Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Frozen Executive Deferred Compansation Plan [Member] Frozen Executive Deferred Compansation Plan [Member] Frozen Executive Deferred Compansation Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Postretirement Health Coverage And Life Insurance [Member] Defined Benefit Postretirement Health 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matching contribution plan Defined Contribution Plan Amount of Employer Matching Contribution Defined Contribution Plan Amount of Employer Matching Contribution Eligible employee contributions Defined Contribution Plan Amount of Eligible Employee Contribution Defined Contribution Plan Amount of Eligible Employee Contribution Contribtions to defined contribution plan Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Number of Company's common shares included in savings plan assets Defined Contribution Plan Amount Of Employer Securities Included In Plan Shares Defined Contribution Plan, Amount Of Employer Securities Included In Plan, Shares Value of Company's common shares included in plan assets Defined Contribution Plan Amount Of Employer Securities Included In Plan Defined Contribution Plan, Amount Of Employer Securities Included In Plan, Value Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation decrease amount Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Fair value of plan assets for postretirement health Changes to non-vested restricted stock and restricted stock units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Non-vested, beginning balance, shares Non-vested, beginning balance, weighted average fair value at date of grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, weighted average fair value at date of grant Vested, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested, weighted average fair value at date of grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited, shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited, weighted average fair value at date of grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Non-vested, ending balance, shares Non-vested, ending balance, weighted average fair value at date of grant Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Revenues Revenues Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net income (loss) from continuing operations Net income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net (loss) income Basic earnings (loss) per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net basic earnings (loss) per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings (loss) per share Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net basic earnings (loss) per common share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Restructuring and Related Cost, Positions Eliminated [Abstract] 2011 Restructuring Plan [Member] Restructuring reserve accrual adjustment Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifiying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Loss and credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Pension and employee benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions and Employee Benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions and Employee Benefits Restructuring charges Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Restructuring Charges Deferred revenue Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Foreign currency hedge Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Valuation allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Deferred implementation costs Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Implementation Costs Deferred Tax Liabilities, Deferred Implementation Costs Contingent debt and accrued interest Deferred Tax Liabilities, Contingent Debt and Accrued Interest Deferred Tax Liabilities, Contingent Debt and Accrued Interest Foreign currency hedge Deferred Tax Liabilities, Derivatives Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities Net deferred tax (liability) / asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Major Customers [Axis] Name of Major Customer [Domain] At And T [Member] At And T [Member] Directtv [Member] Directtv [Member] Comcast [Member] Comcast [Member] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical, Groups of Countries, Group One [Member] Segment, Geographical, Groups of Countries, Group Two [Member] Assets Held-for-sale [Member] Corporate And Other [Member] Corporate And Other [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Depreciation Depreciation Amortization Amortization Asset Impairments Capital Expenditures Capital Expenditures Capital Expenditures Assets Assets Long-Lived Assets Long-Lived Assets Concentration risk percent Concentration Risk, Percentage Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts Receivable, Net Cash Balance Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Schedule Of Components Of Pension Cost Schedule Of Components Of Pension Cost [Text Block] Schedule Of Components Of Pension Cost [Text Block] Schedule of Net Funded Status Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations Schedule of Changes in Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Industry Segments and Geographic Operations Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Investment In Cellular Partnerhsip [Abstract] Investment In Cellular Partnerhsip [Abstract] Schedule Of Net Income Of Cincinnati SMSA Limited Partnership Schedule Of Net Income Of Cellular Partnership [Text Block] Schedule Of Net Income Of Cellular Partnership [Text Block] Schedule Of Assets And LIabilities Of Cellular Partnerships Schedule Of Assets And LIabilities Of Cellular Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Assets And LIabilities Of Cellular Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Equity In Earnings Of Equity Method Investees Schedule Of Equity In Earnings Of Equity Method Investees [Text Block] Schedule Of Equity In Earnings Of Equity Method Investees [Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Divestitures Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current [Abstract] 5.75% Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures [Member] 4.875% Unsecured Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Unsecured debt, principal amount of debt extinguished Unsecured debt, principal amount of debt extinguished Including current and noncurrent portions, the carrying value of the principal amount of debt extinguished Exchange offer terms Exchange offer terms Exchange offer terms Liability component of convertible debt recognized at issuance Convertible Debt, Fair Value Disclosures Deferred tax impact on convertible debt Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Percent Closing Price Must Be Of Conversion Price For Minimum 20 Days For Company To Reedeem Convertible Debt Percent Closing Price Must Be Of Conversion Price For Minimum 20 Days For Company To Reedeem Convertible Debt Percent Closing Price Must Be Of Conversion Price For Minimum 20 Days For Company To Reedeem Convertible Debt Percent Of Debt Converted To Equity Percent Of Debt Converted To Equity Percent Of Debt Converted To Equity Contingent Interest Component, Maxiumum Contingent Interest Component, Maxiumum The maximum amount of contingent interest that will accrue per annum of the average trading price, as outlined in the indenture. Debt Instrument, Convertible, If-converted Value in Excess of Principal Debt Instrument, Convertible, If-converted Value in Excess of Principal Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] 2012 Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due Remainder of Fiscal Year and Year One Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due Remainder of Fiscal Year and Year One 2013 Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due In Year Two Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due In Year Two 2014 Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due In Year Three Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due In Year Three 2015 Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due In Year Four Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due In Year Four 2016 Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due in Year Five Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due in Year Five Thereafter Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Future minimum payments due after the fifth year from the balance sheet date. Total Debt Arrangements Future Minimum Payments Total required future payments on debt and capital lease obligations Significant Purchase and Supply Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Table] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Table] Guarantor Obligations by Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Letter Of Credits Expiration for the Current Year [Member] Letter Of Credits Expiration for the Current Year [Member] Letters of Credit Expiration for the Preceding One to Three Years [Member] Letters of Credit Expiration for the Preceding One to Three Years [Member] Letters of Credit Expiration for the Preceding One to Three Years [Member] Letters Of Credit Expiration After Three Years [Member] Letters Of Credit Expiration After Three Years [Member] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] HRM Performance Bond Obligations [Member] HRM Performance Bond Obligations [Member] HRM Performance Bond Obligations [Member] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Axis] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Axis] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Domain] Purchase Commitment, Excluding Long-term Commitment [Domain] Remaining Purchase Commitments for the Current Year [Member] Remaining Purchase Commitments for the Current Year [Member] Remaining Purchase Commitments for the Current Year [Member] Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Letters of credit outstanding amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Guarantee Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Liability of obligations Liabilities of Business Transferred under Contractual Arrangement, Noncurrent Purchase Commitments Purchase Commitment, Remaining Minimum Amount Committed Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Receivables, net of allowances of $10.2 and $11.0 Receivables, Net, Current Deferred income tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Current assets held-for-sale Assets Held-for-sale, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property and equipment, net Goodwill, net Other intangibles, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Investment in Cellular Partnerships Equity Method Investments Deferred income tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Debt and capital lease obligations maturing within one year Debt, Current Payables, deferred revenue and other current liabilities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations Deferred income tax liability Accrued pension liability Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred shares - without par value, 5.0 authorized; none outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common shares - without par value, 500.0 authorized; 185.0 and 184.2 issued, 115.4 and 122.1 outstanding, as of December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, resptectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Treasury Stock - 69.6 shares in 2011 and 62.1 in 2010 Treasury Stock, Value Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Total shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] AT&T [Member] AT&T [Member] AT&T [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Percentage of interest owned by company Gain on sale of interests in Cellular Partnerships Net gain on sale of interest in Cellular Partnerships, net of tax Equity Method Investment Realized Gain (Loss) On Disposal Net Of Tax This item represents the amount of gain or loss, net of tax, arising from the disposal of an equity method investment For the year ended 12/31/12 Future Amortization Expense, Year One For the year ended 12/31/13 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two For the year ended 12/31/14 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three For the year ended 12/31/15 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four For the year ended 12/31/16 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Future Amortization Expense, after Year Five Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Deferred Tax Asset Valuation Allowance [Member] Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Charged to Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Charged to Other Accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Balance at End of Period Operating Costs and Expenses: Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of providing services and products sold Cost of Revenue Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development costs Research and Development Expense Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating Income (Loss) Earnings from Cellular Partnerships, net Other income (expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest expense Interest Expense Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income (loss) from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax Net Income (Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent