Geographic Information (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Oct. 31, 2016
Geographic Information Disclosure Table [Abstract]  
Summary of revenue and long-lived assets by principal georgraphic areas
 (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014
 Revenue:  
  U.S.$ 1,289,830$ 1,340,760$ 1,376,107
  International  53,030  62,803  74,187
  Total$ 1,342,860$ 1,403,563$ 1,450,294

 (in thousands) 2016 2015 2014
 Long-lived Assets:  
  U.S.$ 42,153$ 43,596$ 44,279
  International  2,274  1,347  1,372
  Total$ 44,427$ 44,943$ 45,651