Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Year Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Provisions Charged to Earnings Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Write-Offs Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Translation Adjustments Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments Reclassifications and Other Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts Balance at End of Year Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Data Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $98.1 and $111.4, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Prepaid expenses and other assets Current Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Amount of assets related to consideration paid in advance for costs that provide economic benefits in future periods, and amount of other assets. The economic benefit of these costs are expected to be realized within 12 months of the balance sheet date. Total current assets Assets, Current Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Goodwill Goodwill Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of $266.6 and $276.2, respectively Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Assets, Noncurrent Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Land, buildings, leasehold improvements and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable And Accrued Temp Payroll Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors and temporary employees for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Employee compensation payable Accrued Salaries Current And Accrued Vacation Current Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of the obligations incurred through that date and payable for 1) permanent employees' services provided and 2) unused vacation time owed to employees based on the entity's vacation benefit given to its employees. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued payroll taxes and insurance Accrued Payroll Taxes, Current Value added taxes payable Sales and Excise Tax Payable, Current Short-term borrowings and current maturities of long-term debt Debt, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Other liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total other liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Shareholders’ Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, $.01 par value, authorized 25,000,000 shares, none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Outstanding Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 125,000,000 shares, issued 114,504,928 and 112,876,552 shares, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital in excess of par value Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock at cost, 41,466,590 and 34,762,316 shares, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Total ManpowerGroup shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Share-based compensation Share-based Compensation Income tax benefit recognized related to share-based compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Proceeds from share-based awards Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction Excess income tax benefit recognized related to share-based compensation awards Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Capital in Excess of Par Value Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Non- controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Balance at beginning of period (in shares) Shares, Issued Balance at beginning of period Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Issuances under equity plans, including tax benefits (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuances under equity plans, including tax benefits Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Share-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Dividends Dividends, Common Stock Repurchases of common stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Contribution from a noncontrolling interest and other noncontrolling interest transactions Noncontrolling Interest, Increase From Subsidiary Equity Issuance And Other Transactions Noncontrolling Interest, Increase From Subsidiary Equity Issuance And Other Transactions Balance at end of period (in shares) Balance at end of period Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Interest Income Interest income received from interest bearing assets. The balance includes income earned in return for depositing or lending money that can include income from time deposits, demand deposits, saving accounts, certificates of deposit, money market deposits, bonds, and loans. Foreign exchange (gain) loss Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Miscellaneous (income) expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest and other expenses Interest And Other Nonoperating Expenses Sum of interest income and expense, foreign exchange gains and losses and other miscellaneous non-operating income and expenses. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock option Employee Stock Option [Member] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] $27-$34 Range One [Member] Stock options outstanding and exercisable with exercise price range of $26 to $34 per share. $35-$44 Range Two [Member] Stock options outstanding and exercisable with exercise price range of $35 to $44 per share. $45-$55 Range Three [Member] Stock options outstanding and exercisable with exercise price range of $45 to $55 per share. $56-$93 Range Four [Member] Stock options outstanding and exercisable with exercise price range of $56 to $93 per share. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Exercise price range, lower range limit (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Exercise price range, upper range limit (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Options outstanding, shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options Options outstanding, weighted-average remaining contractual life Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options outstanding, weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options exercisable, shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options Options exercisable, weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Investments value Equity Method Investments Unremitted earning from investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Effect of 1% increase on total of service and interest cost components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect of 1% decrease on total of service and interest cost components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect of 1% increase on benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Effect of 1% decrease on benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] United States UNITED STATES Germany GERMANY United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Netherlands Netherlands (Vitae) [Member] The name of a geographic segment representing facts about a reporting entity disaggregated by the geographic area of the entities activities. France FRANCE Right Management Right Management [Member] Segment information pertaining to Right Management. Other reporting units Other Segments [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Quarterly Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Calculation of net earnings per share - basic and net earnings per share - diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of antidilutive awards Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Leases Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] United States Plans United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member] Non-United States Plans Foreign Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Benefit Obligation [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected long-term return on plan assets (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Document and Entity Information [Abstract] 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 Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Schedule of future minimum payments under noncancelable operating leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Borrowing Capacity [Axis] Borrowing Capacity [Axis] Borrowing Capacity [Axis] Borrowing Capacity [Domain] Borrowing Capacity [Domain] [Domain] for Borrowing Capacity [Axis] First, second, and fourth quarters First, Second, And Fourth Quarters [Member] First, Second, And Fourth Quarters [Member] Third quarter Third Quarters [Member] Third Quarters [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Uncommitted credit lines, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Uncommitted credit lines, remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net earnings Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive (loss) income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Net of tax and reclassification adjustments of the change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency of the reporting entity. Translation adjustments on net investment hedge, net of income taxes of $19.2, $20.3 and $(5.4), respectively Derivatives used in Net Investment Hedge, Net of Tax, Period Increase (Decrease) Translation adjustments on long-term intercompany loans Adjustment for Long-term Intercompany Transactions, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of income taxes of $0.1, $2.1 and $(2.3), respectively Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Defined benefit pension plans and retiree health care plan, net of income taxes of $7.8, $(8.6) and $5.2, respectively Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Total other comprehensive (loss) income Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Purchase price (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent Share-based payment award vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Fair value of options vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Total unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Total unrecognized compensation cost, weighted-average period for recognition Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Risk-free interest rate term Risk Free Interest Rate Term Term of securities considered in risk-free interest rate assumption. Weighted average of daily historical volatility of Company's stock price, weight (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Weighted Average Volatility Rate Implied volatility based on exchange traded options for Company's common stock, weight (as a percent) Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Implied Volatility Stock Options Weight The weight of the implied volatility based on the exchange traded options for the Company's common stock used in the fair value assumptions of the stock options granted. Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Translation gain (loss) on net investment hedge, net of income taxes of $2.8 and $(16.4), respectively Derivatives used in Net Investment Hedge, Net of Tax Translation gain (loss) on net investment hedge, taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Translation Loss on Net Investment Hedge, Tax Tax effect of current period adjustment resulting from gains and losses on foreign currency transactions that are designated as, and are effective as, economic hedges of a net investment in a foreign entity. Translation loss on long-term intercompany loans Intercompany Foreign Currency Balance, Amount Unrealized gain on investments, net of income taxes of $3.8 and $3.7, respectively Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Unrealized gain on investments, taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) On Securities Arising During Period, Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) On Securities Arising During Period, Tax Defined benefit pension plans, net of income taxes of $(22.3) and $(30.1), respectively Pension Plan [Member] Retiree health care plan, net of income taxes of $2.4 in both 2015 and 2014 Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Defined benefit plans Defined Benefit Plan Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income After Tax The after tax total of net gain (loss), prior service cost (credit) and transition assets (obligations) included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Defined benefit plans, taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Defined Benefit Plans, Tax Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Five Year Credit Agreement Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] Five Year Credit Agreement [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving credit facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Credit agreement term Debt Instrument, Term Portion which may be used for the issuance of stand-by letters of credit (up to) Line of Credit Facility, Capacity Available for Specific Purpose Other than for Trade Purchases Outstanding letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Facility fee (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Credit spread (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Maximum Debt-to-EBITDA ratio Debt to EBITDA Ratio, Maximum Maximum debt to EBITDA ratio as per covenant terms. Minimum fixed charge coverage ratio Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio, Minimum Minimum fixed charge coverage ratio as per restrictive covenant terms. Average risk-free interest rate (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected dividend yield (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Expected volatility (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected term (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Weighted-average interest rates (as a percent) Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Schedule of components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land Land [Member] Buildings Building [Member] Furniture, fixtures, and autos Furniture, Fixtures and Autos [Member] Long lived, depreciable assets, commonly used in offices and stores and autos. Computer equipment Computer Equipment [Member] Leasehold improvements Leasehold Improvements [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and equipment Estimated useful lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] 2014 California lawsuit Settled Litigation [Member] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Guarantees Guarantee Obligations [Member] Stand-by letters of credit Financial Standby Letter of Credit [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Legal costs Legal Fees Guarantee contracts and stand-by letters of credit Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Loss contingency Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Total expense for employer match and profit sharing contributions Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Deferred compensation plans, asset and liability Deferred Compensation Plans, Asset Liability Aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date of the assets and liabilities for significant deferred compensation arrangements. Represents currently earned compensation under compensation arrangements that is not actually paid until a later date. Pension plans Retiree Health Care Plan Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Curtailment and settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments Net loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Prior service cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Other Changes in Plan Assets and Benefit Obligation Recognized in Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Net (gain) loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Prior service cost (credit) Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Arising During Period, before Tax Amortization of net loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax Amortization of prior service (cost) credit Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Amortization Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive (income) loss Defined Benefit Plans Total Amounts Recognized In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Other Comprehensive Income Loss Before Tax Period Increase Decrease Total amounts recognized in in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income, including the net gain (loss) and net prior service cost (credit) arising during the period. Restricted stock Restricted Stock [Member] Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Unvested at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Unvested at end of period (in shares) Wtd. Avg. Price Per Share Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Unvested at beginning of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested at end of period (in dollars per share) Equity Other Than Options, Additional [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Unvested (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Unvested Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value As of the balance sheet date, the total dollar difference between fair values of the underlying shares reserved for issuance and exercise prices of nonvested equity instruments other than options outstanding. Accumulated benefit obligation for plans that have plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligation for plans that do not have plan assets Defined Benefit Plan Accumulated Benefit Obligation For Plans That Do Not Have Plan Assets For defined benefit pension plans, the actuarial present value of benefits (whether vested or nonvested) attributed by the pension benefit formula to employee service rendered before a specified date and based on employee service and compensation (if applicable) before that date for the plans that do not have plan assets. Estimated net loss that will be amortized from AOCI into net periodic benefit cost during next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Gain (Loss) Estimated prior service cost (credit) that will be amortized from AOCI into net periodic benefit cost during next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Future Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Expected long-term rate of return, non-U.S., lowest (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost Expected Long Term Return On Assets Minimum An assumption as to the lowest rate of return on non-U.S. plan assets reflecting the rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation. Expected long-term rate of return, non-U.S., highest (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost Expected Long Term Return On Assets Maximum An assumption as to the highest rate of return on non-U.S. plan assets reflecting the rate of earnings expected on the funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation. Number of foreign plans using guaranteed insurance contracts Defined Benefit Plan Number Of Plans Using Guaranteed Insurance Contracts Number of defined benefit plans using guaranteed insurance contracts. Net loss recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Gains (Losses), after Tax Prior service credit recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), after Tax Discount rate used in measurement of benefit obligation (as a percent) Discount rate used in measurement of net periodic benefit cost (as a percent) Health care cost trend rate assumed for next fiscal year (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year Ultimate health care cost trend rate (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Year that health care cost trend rate reaches ultimate trend rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Estimated employer contribution to pension plans during next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Changes in goodwill by reportable segment and corporate Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of goodwill balances by reporting unit Goodwill Balances By Reporting Unit [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of goodwill balances by reporting unit. Summary of stock option activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of options outstanding and exercisable Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Assumptions used to estimate fair value of share awards Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Summary of restricted stock activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of performance share units detail by grant year Performance share units detail by grant year [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of threshold, target and outstanding award levels for each outstanding grant of performance share units. Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Italy ITALY Total Foreign Total Foreign [Member] Geographical information pertaining to all the business activities outside the United States. Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item [Line Items] Revenues from Services Sales Revenue, Services, Net Long-Lived Assets Long-Lived Assets Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Allowance for doubtful accounts Bad debt expense Write-Offs Franchise fees Franchise Revenue Current portion of deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] €400 due September 2022 Notes Due September 2022 [Member] Notes Due September 2022 [Member] €350 due June 2018 Notes Due June 2018 [Member] Notes Due June 2018 [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as economic hedges Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not designated as hedges Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Euro-denominated notes Euro denominated Note EUR300 [Member] An obligation resulting from borrowing money. Forward contracts Forward Contracts [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Principal amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Unrealized translation gain on net investment hedge included in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of taxes Gain associated with forward contracts included in interest and other expenses Derivative, Gain on Derivative Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Gross unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increases in prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decreases in prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Increases for current year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Expiration of statute of limitations and audit settlements Unrecognized tax benefits, reductions from expiration of statute of limitations and audit settlements The gross amount of decreases in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from lapses of the applicable statutes of limitations and from settlements with taxing authorities. Gross unrecognized tax benefits, end of year Potential interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Balance, end of year Unrecognized tax benefits including potential interest and penalties The gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits pertaining to uncertain tax positions taken in tax returns including potential interest and penalties as of the balance sheet date. Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] Vesting period one Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member] Vesting period two Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Two [Member] Vesting period three Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche Three [Member] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] Savings Related Share Option Scheme for United Kingdom U K Savings Related Share Option Scheme [Member] A stock plan which offers employees the opportunity to obtain an option for a specified number of shares of common stock at not less than 85% of its market value on the day prior to the offer to participate in the plan. Requisite service period (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period Purchase price as percentage of market value (not less than) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Options Purchase Price Percentage Of Fair Market Value, Minimum The minimum purchase price of stock purchase options expressed as a percentage of the fair market value. Payroll deduction period to accumulate funds used for share-based payment award Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Payroll Deduction Period The payroll deduction period over which specified payroll deductions are made to accumulate funds used for share-based payment award. Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of segment information - revenues from services, operating unit profit Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of revenues from services by geographical region Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block] Schedule of segment information - depreciation and amortization expense, earnings from equity investment, total assets, equity investments, long-lived assets and additions to long-lived assets Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Schedule of long-lived assets by geographical region Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] United States Federal and Non-United States U S Federal and Non U S [Member] The group of designated tax departments of the governments that are entitled to levy and collect income taxes from the entity in or outside their countries of domicile. United States State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] 2016 Net operating loss carryforwards expiration within twelve months For net operating loss carryforwards expiring within twelve months of the balance sheet date. 2017 Net operating loss carryforwards expiration in two years For net operating loss carryforwards expiring within the second year following the balance sheet date. 2018 Net operating loss carryforward expiration within three years For net operating loss carryforwards expiring within the third year following the balance sheet date. 2019 Net operating loss carryforwards expiring within four years For net operating loss carryforwards expiring within the fourth year following the balance sheet date. 2020 Net Operating Loss Carryforward Expiring Within Five Years For net operating loss carryforwards expiring within the fifth year following the balance sheet date. Thereafter Net operating loss carryforwards expiring after five years For net operating loss carryforwards expiring after the fifth year following the balance sheet date. No expirations Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Not Subject to Expiration Total net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Retirement and Deferred Compensation Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Multiplier for payroll tax credits Multiplier For Payroll Tax Credits Multiplier to the French minimum wage for the purpose of determining eligibility for the French payroll tax credit. Credit d'Impot pur la Competitive et l'Emploi ("CICE"), French legislation, provides payroll tax credit on a percentage of wages paid to employees receiving less than this number times the French minimum wage. Percentage of eligible wages for tax credit CICE payroll tax credit Percentage to be applied to the eligible wages for calculation of the CICE payroll tax credit. Payment period Payment Period Of The CICE Payroll Tax Credit The carry-forward period after which the remaining CICE payroll tax credit will be paid. Net proceeds from sale of tax credits Proceeds from Sale of Other Receivables Percentage of ownership in Swiss franchise Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Swiss franchise investment portfolio market value Swiss Franchise Investment Market Value Investment in debt and equity securities that are categorized as neither held-to-maturity or trading, associated with a Swiss franchise in which we hold a 49 percent interest. Swiss franchise realized gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Swiss franchise realized losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses Other-than-temporary impairment (gain) loss Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities Dividends per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Schedule of interest and other expenses Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Income tax expense (benefit) on translation adjustments on net investment hedge Derivatives used in Net Investment Hedge, Tax Benefit (Expense) Income tax expense (benefit) on unrealized gain (loss) on investments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax Income tax expense (benefit) on defined benefit pension plans and retiree health care plan Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Non-United States Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Non-United States Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total provision Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Change in Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Benefit obligation, beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Transfers Defined Benefit Plan, Divestitures, Benefit Obligation Actuarial (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Plan participant contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Currency exchange rate changes Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Gain (Loss) Retiree drug subsidy reimbursement Defined Benefit Plan, Gross Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts Received Benefit obligation, end of year Change in Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Company contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Benefits paid Currency exchange rate changes Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Fair value of plan assets, end of year Funded Status at End of Year Defined Benefit Plan, before Adoption of FAS 158 Recognition Provisions, Disclosures [Abstract] Funded status, end of year Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Amounts Recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract] Noncurrent assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent Current liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Noncurrent liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Net amount recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Expired or cancelled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Outstanding at end of period (in shares) Vested or expected to vest (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Exercisable (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Wtd. Avg. Exercise Price Per Share Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Expired or cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share) Vested or expected to vest (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Wtd. Avg. Remaining Contractual Term and Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Outstanding (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Vested or expected to vest (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Income tax benefit related to the CICE payroll tax credit Income Tax Benefit Related To The CICE Payroll Tax Credit Amount of income tax benefit included in non-United States tax rate difference related to the CICE payroll tax credits because it is tax-free for French tax purposes. New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Table] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Future income tax (expense) benefits Future Income Tax (Expense) Benefit [Member] Future Income Tax (Expense) Benefit [Member] Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other long-term liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Line Items] Current deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Current deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Noncurrent deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Deferred tax asset on net operating losses Valuation allowance, net operating losses Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance Pretax income of non-United States operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Unremitted earnings of non-United States subsidiaries that are considered to be permanently invested Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Unremitted earnings of non-United States subsidiaries that may be remitted Unremitted earnings of non-United States subsidiaries that may be remitted Amount of unremitted earnings of non-United States subsidiaries that may be remitted to the United States. Deferred tax liability, undistributed foreign earnings Deferred Tax Liabilities, Undistributed Foreign Earnings Tax benefits relating to unrecognized tax benefits Tax benefits relating to unrecognized tax benefits Tax benefits recognized relating to unrecognized tax benefits. Amount of unrecognized tax benefit that would affect the effective tax rate, if recognized Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Number of countries and territories in which the Company operates Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Schedule of changes in restructuring liability balance by segment Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of goodwill, finite-lived intangible assets and indefinite-lived intangible assets Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Summary of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Benefit Obligation Plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Net earnings available to common shareholders Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in millions): Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Effect of dilutive securities - stock options (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Stock Options Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of stock options using the treasury stock method. Effect of other share-based awards (in shares) Dilutive Securities Effect On Basic Earnings Per Common Share, Other Awards Dilutive Securities Effect On Basic Earnings Per Common Share, Other Awards Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Net earnings per share - basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Net earnings per share - diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] 7S 7S Group GmbH [Member] 7S [Member] Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member] 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] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Total cash consideration paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Transaction costs associated with acquisition Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Net acquired assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Intangible assets acquired during the period Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Amortization expense 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Amortization expense 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Amortization expense 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Amortization expense 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Amortization expense 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Goodwill Goodwill acquired during the period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Technology Developed Technology Rights [Member] Franchise agreements Franchise Rights [Member] Other Other Intangible Assets [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Tradenames Trade Names [Member] Reacquired franchise rights Reacquired Franchise Rights [Member] The rights we reacquired through business combinations that we had previously granted to the franchisees (acquirees) to use our trade name under a franchise agreement. Prior to 2009, these rights were considered indefinite-lived. Accumulated impairment loss Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Finite-lived: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Indefinite-lived: Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Gross Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Gross Sum of the gross amounts (original costs for current and prior period additions adjusted for impairment, if any) as of the balance sheet date of intangible assets, excluding goodwill, having a projected indefinite period of benefit. Accumulated Amortization Accumulated Amortization on Infinite Intangible Assets Represents the amount of accumulated amortization on infinite intangible assets as of the balance sheet date. Net Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Accumulated impairment loss Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss The accumulated impairment losses related to indefinite-lived intangible assets (excluding goodwill) as of the balance sheet date. Total intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Gross Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Accumulated Amortization Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization (Excluding Goodwill), Total Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization (Excluding Goodwill), Total. Net Amortization expense related to intangibles Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Weighted-average useful lives Income approach weight for goodwill impairment for certain reporting units Income Approach Weight For Goodwill Impairment For Certain Reporting Units Weight of income approach in determining the fair value of goodwill for impairment for certain of the Company's reporting units. Market approach weight for goodwill impairment for certain reporting units Market Approach Weight For Goodwill Impairment For Certain Reporting Units Weight of market approach in determining the fair value of goodwill for impairment for certain of the Company's reporting units. Discount rate for goodwill impairment test (as a percent) Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenues and Receivables Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs Advertising Cost, Policy, Expensed Advertising Cost [Policy Text Block] Restructuring Costs Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities or Restructurings, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalized Software for Internal Use Internal Use Software, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Noncontrolling Interests Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Payroll Tax Credit PAYROLL TAX CREDIT, Policy [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for payroll tax credit creditable against current income tax payable. Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reconciliation of changes in benefit obligations and the statement of funded status of plan Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of fair value of plan assets Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of plans with projected benefit obligation in excess of fair value of plan assets Schedule of Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of net periodic benefit cost and other amounts recognized in other comprehensive loss Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of weighted-average assumptions used in measurement of benefit obligation and net periodic benefit cost Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of plan assets by asset category Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in fair value of insurance contracts Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of effect of one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of projected future benefit payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of quarterly data Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Revenues from services Gross profit Gross Profit Operating profit Operating Income (Loss) Market price: Market price [Abstract] High (in dollars per share) Market price of shares traded on an exchange, High Market price of shares traded on an exchange, High. Low (in dollars per share) Market price of shares traded on an exchange, Low Market price of shares traded on an exchange, Low. Restructuring costs Restructuring Charges Non-operating gains Nonoperating Income (Expense) Restructuring costs per diluted share (in dollars per share) Restructuring Cost Per Common Share, Diluted Restructuring Cost Per Common Share, Diluted Non-operating gains per diluted share (in dollars per share) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Per Common Share, Diluted Nonoperating Income (Expense) Per Common Share, Diluted Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accumulated amortization on intangible assets Shareholders' Equity Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock at cost (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Interest and Other Expenses Interest And Other Expenses [Text Block] The entire disclosure for interest income and expense, foreign exchange gains and losses and other miscellaneous non-operating income and expenses. Performance share units Performance Shares [Member] December 31, 2014 December 31, 2015 Award Date [Axis] Award Date [Axis] Award Date [Domain] Award Date [Domain] February 14, 2013 Grant Date 1 [Member] Grant Date 1 [Member] February 11, 2014 and May 1, 2014 Grant Date 2 [Member] Grant Date 2 [Member] February 11, 2015 Grant Date 3 [Member] Grant Date 3 [Member] Performance period range Performance period range Performance term considered in granting performance share units. Vesting percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Payout Levels (in units): Payout Levels [Abstract] Threshold Award (in shares) Threshold Award In the event the performance criteria falls below the target performance level, a reduced number of shares, as low as the Threshold Award level, may be granted. Target Award (in shares) Target Award In the event the performance criteria meets the target performance level, the number of shares, up to the Target Award level, may be granted. Outstanding Award (in shares) Outstanding Award In the event the performance criteria exceeds the target performance level, an additional number of shares, up to the Outstanding Award level, may be granted. Shares Issued in 2015 (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Issued In Period Number of shares under an equity-based award plan, other than a stock option plan, that were issued during the reporting period. Shares Subject to Holding Period (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Subject To Holding Number of shares under an equity-based award plan, other than a stock option plan, that are subject to holding. Percentage of the target award level achieved over the performance period Award Payout Percentage of Performance Target Award payout percentage of performance target Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value measured on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of fair value measurement Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Reported value measurement Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Foreign currency forward contracts Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure Deferred compensation plan assets Total assets measured at fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Foreign currency forward contracts Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure Total liabilities measured at fair value Financial Liabilities Fair Value Disclosure Euro-denominated notes Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Advertising expenses Advertising Expense Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Other Other Debt [Member] Other long-term debt not otherwise identified. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt Long-term Debt Less — current maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Schedule of provision for income taxes 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] Components of future income tax benefits (expense) Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of net operating loss carryforwards Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block] Summary of unrecognized tax benefit activity Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Reportable segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Segment reconciling items Segment Reconciling Items [Member] Business Segments [Axis] Reportable Segment [Domain] Americas Americas Segment [Member] Americas Segment [Member] Southern Europe Southern Europe [Member] Segment information pertaining to Southern Europe. Northern Europe Northern Europe [Member] Segment information pertaining to Northern Europe. APME APME [Member] Segment information pertaining to APME. Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] United States United States Subsegment [Member] United States Subsegment [Member] Other Americas Other Americas reportable segment [Member] Segment information related to the Americas excluding the United States reportable segment. France France Subsegment [Member] France Subsegment [Member] Italy Italy Subsegment [Member] Italy Subsegment [Member] Other Southern Europe Other Southern Europe reportable segment [Member] Segment information related to the Southern Europe segment excluding France and Italy reportable segments. Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Reportable subsegments Reportable Subsegments [Member] Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating Unit Profit Operating Unit Profit (loss) Operating unit profit (loss) is equal to segment revenues less cost of services and branch and national headquarters operating costs. This profit measure does not include goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges or amortization of intangibles related to acquisitions, interest and other income and expense amounts or income taxes. Corporate expenses Operating Expenses Intangible asset amortization expense Interest and other expenses Earnings before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Depreciation and Amortization Expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Earnings from Equity Investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Total Assets Equity Investments Additions to Long-Lived Assets Addition To Long-Lived Assets Addition To Long-Lived Assets Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of services Cost of Services Gross profit Selling and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Operating profit Interest and other expenses Earnings before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision for income taxes Net earnings Net earnings per share - basic (in dollars per share) Net earnings per share - diluted (in dollars per share) Weighted average shares - basic (in shares) Weighted average shares - diluted (in shares) Share-Based Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] U.S. Federal statutory rate (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract] Income tax based on statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Increase (decrease) resulting from: Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount [Abstract] Non-United States tax rate difference Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Repatriation of non-United States earnings Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Amount State income taxes, net of Federal benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Change in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Computer software Computer Software, Intangible Asset [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Net capitalized software balance Capitalized Computer Software, Net Amortization expense related to capitalized software cost Capitalized Computer Software, Amortization Net loss Prior service cost Total Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Number of offices worldwide (more than) Number Of Offices In Which Entity Operates The number of offices in which the entity operates as of balance sheet date. Number of countries and territories Number of Countries and Territories in which Entity Operates The number of countries and territories in which the entity operates as of balance sheet date. Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Share-based awards Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities excluded from the calculation of net earnings per share - diluted (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Exercise price ranges (in dollars per share) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Exercise price Refers to exercise prices for awards excluded from the calculation of net earnings per share. Weighted-average remaining life Antidilutive Securities Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Common Share, Weighted Average Remaining Life Refers to weighted average remaining contractual term for awards excluded from the calculation of net earnings per share. Schedule of short-term borrowings Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of long-term debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] United States companies Equity Securities U S Companies [Member] This category includes ownership interest in United States corporations. International companies Equity Securities, International Companies [Member] This category includes ownership interest in international corporations. Government bonds Fixed Income Securities, Government Bonds [Member] This category includes investments in debt securities issued by U.S. Treasury/ Federal agency and foreign governments. Corporate bonds Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Guaranteed insurance contracts Fixed Income Securities, Guaranteed Insurance Contracts [Member] A contract promising a stated nominal interest rate over some specific time period, usually several years. Annuity contract Annuity contract [Member] This category includes ownership interest in annuity contract. Unitized funds Unitized Funds [Member] A fund structure that allows investors to pool assets while retaining individual net asset values for each participant and keeping track of historical fund records. Each investor in the fund is accounted for separately and has their own unit - their own class of shares of the portfolio's total assets. Insurance contracts Insurance Contract [Member] This category includes ownership interest in insurance contract. Real estate funds Real Estate Funds [Member] Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Fixed income funds Fixed Income Funds [Member] Cash Cash [Member] Fair value of plan assets Percentage of investment in plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net earnings 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 Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Excess tax benefit on exercise of share-based awards Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Change in operating assets and liabilities, excluding the impact of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired Proceeds from the sale of investments, property and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, And Equipment And Investments Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, And Equipment And Investments Cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net change in short-term borrowings Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payments for debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Proceeds from share-based awards and other equity transactions Proceeds From Share-Based Awards And Other Equity Transactions Cash received on stock transaction after deduction of issuance costs, and on other equity transactions. Other share-based award transactions, net Proceeds From Payments For Other Share Based Award Transactions Net The total cash inflow (outflow) associated with share-based award transactions not individually reported. Repurchases of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents, end of year Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid, net Income Taxes Paid, Net 2016 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months 2017 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five 2021-2025 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Total projected benefit payments Defined Benefit Plan Expected Future Benefit Payments Total The total amount of the aggregate benefits expected to be paid. Term for restrictions to lapse Term For Restrictions To Lapse Maximum term required for the restrictions to lapse on restricted stock. Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior notes Senior Notes [Member] Notes due September 2022 Notes due June 2018 Interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Net proceeds from the notes Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Discounted issue price (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Issuance Price, Percentage Of Principal Amount Sold Debt Instrument, Issuance Price, Percentage Of Principal Amount Sold Effective interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Jefferson Wells Jefferson Wells [Member] Information pertaining to Jefferson Wells. Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Goodwill acquired Currency impact and other Goodwill, Translation Adjustments And Other Changes Goodwill, Translation Adjustments And Other Changes Balance at end of period Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Rental expense [Abstract] Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net [Abstract] Rental expense for all operating leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] 2012 Authorization December 2012 Authorization [Member] December 2012 Authorization 2015 Authorization October 2015 Authorization [Member] October 2015 Authorization [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [Member] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Shares repurchased (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Shares remaining authorized for repurchase Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Total cost of shares repurchased Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Par Value Method Dividends declared (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Total dividend payments Net earnings, net of tax, attributable to noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Costs [Abstract] Restructuring Costs [Abstract] Restructuring reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Restructuring Reserve Costs paid or utilized Payments for Restructuring Severance costs Severance Costs Office closure costs Business Exit Costs Balance at end of year Future Income Tax (Expense) Benefits Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Accrued payroll taxes and insurance Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Benefits Employee compensation payable Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation Pension and postretirement benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Intangible assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Repatriation of non-United States earnings Intercompany loans denominated in foreign currencies Deferred Tax Liabilities, Foreign Intercompany Loans Deferred Tax Liabilities, Foreign Intercompany Loans Net operating losses Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Other Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Other Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total future tax benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Net Total future tax (expense) Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Deferred tax asset Deferred tax liability Total future tax benefits Total future tax (expense) Unrealized (loss) gain Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Still Held Purchases, sales and settlements, net Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Axis] Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] Equity-Based Arrangements, Individual Contracts, Type of Deferred Compensation [Domain] In lieu of annual cash retainer In Lieu of Annual Cash Retainer [Member] Deferred stock units issued in lieu of the annual cash retainer to non-employee directors. Additional compensation for board service Additional Compensation for Board Service [Member] Deferred stock units issued to non-employee directors as additional compensation for board service. Deferred stock Deferred Stock [Member] Stock units that are deferred. Stock units granted at period end (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Grants In Period1 The number of grants made at period end on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Stock units canceled Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Grants In Period, Canceled Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Canceled