Biggest changeResults of Operations The following tables set forth our results of operations for the periods presented in dollars and as a percentage of our revenue: Year Ended July 31, 2023 2022 2021 (in thousands) Revenue $ 1,616,952 $ 1,090,946 $ 673,100 Cost of revenue (1)(2) 362,832 242,282 150,317 Gross profit 1,254,120 848,664 522,783 Operating expenses: Sales and marketing (1)(2) 953,864 735,219 459,407 Research and development (1)(2) 349,735 289,139 174,653 General and administrative (1)(3) 177,544 151,735 96,535 Restructuring and other charges (1) 7,600 — — Total operating expenses 1,488,743 1,176,093 730,595 Loss from operations (234,623) (327,429) (207,812) Interest income 60,462 4,586 2,812 Interest expense (4)(5) (6,541) (56,579) (53,364) Other income (expense), net (1,862) (4,208) 1,186 Loss before income taxes (182,564) (383,630) (257,178) Provision for income taxes 19,771 6,648 4,851 Net loss $ (202,335) $ (390,278) $ (262,029) _____ (1) Includes stock-based compensation expense and related payroll taxes as follows: Cost of revenue $ 40,297 $ 25,292 $ 15,272 Sales and marketing 222,280 202,211 144,273 Research and development 121,151 123,422 73,238 General and administrative 73,051 79,095 45,779 Restructuring and other charges 1,036 — — Total $ 457,815 $ 430,020 $ 278,562 69 Table of Contents (2) Includes amortization expense of acquired intangible assets as follows: Cost of revenue $ 9,574 $ 7,975 $ 6,468 Sales and marketing 773 704 327 Research and development 713 331 — Total $ 11,060 $ 9,010 $ 6,795 (3) Includes asset impairment related to facility exit as follows: $ — $ — $ 416 (4) Includes amortization of debt discount and issuance costs as follows: $ 3,894 $ 55,141 $ 51,923 (5) Effective August 1, 2022, we adopted ASU 2020-06 using the modified retrospective method under which prior period amounts have not been adjusted.
Biggest changeWe expect to maintain this full valuation allowance for the foreseeable future as it is more likely than not that some or all of those deferred tax assets may not be realized based on our history of losses. 70 Table of Contents Results of Operations The following tables set forth our results of operations for the periods presented in dollars and as a percentage of our revenue: Year Ended July 31, 2024 2023 2022 (in thousands) Revenue $ 2,167,771 $ 1,616,952 $ 1,090,946 Cost of revenue (1)(2) 477,129 362,832 242,282 Gross profit 1,690,642 1,254,120 848,664 Operating expenses: Sales and marketing (1)(2) 1,100,239 953,864 735,219 Research and development (1)(2) 499,828 349,735 289,139 General and administrative (1) 212,052 177,544 151,735 Restructuring and other charges (1) — 7,600 — Total operating expenses 1,812,119 1,488,743 1,176,093 Loss from operations (121,477) (234,623) (327,429) Interest income 109,130 60,462 4,586 Interest expense (3)(5) (13,132) (6,541) (56,579) Other expense, net (3,750) (1,862) (4,208) Loss before income taxes (29,229) (182,564) (383,630) Provision for income taxes (4) 28,477 19,771 6,648 Net loss $ (57,706) $ (202,335) $ (390,278) (1) Includes stock-based compensation expense and related payroll taxes as follows: Cost of revenue $ 52,766 $ 40,297 $ 25,292 Sales and marketing 230,597 222,280 202,211 Research and development 186,107 121,151 123,422 General and administrative 79,630 73,051 79,095 Restructuring and other charges — 1,036 — Total $ 549,100 $ 457,815 $ 430,020 (2) Includes amortization expense of acquired intangible assets as follows: Cost of revenue $ 12,879 $ 9,574 $ 7,975 Sales and marketing 1,232 773 704 Research and development 513 713 331 Total $ 14,624 $ 11,060 $ 9,010 (3) Includes amortization of debt discount and issuance costs $ 3,914 $ 3,894 $ 55,141 (4) Includes tax benefit associated with the business acquisitions $ (1,864) $ — $ — (5) Effective August 1, 2022, we adopted ASU 2020-06 using the modified retrospective method under which prior period amounts have not been adjusted.
Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2023 of $259.3 million was primarily attributable to the purchases of short-term investments of $1,064.1 million, capital expenditures of $128.7 million to support the growth and expansion of our cloud platform, $15.6 million, net of cash acquired for business acquisitions, and $3.2 million for purchases of strategic investments.
Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2023 of $259.3 million was primarily attributable to the purchases of short-term investments of $1,064.1 million, capital expenditures of $128.7 million to support the growth and expansion of our cloud platform, $15.6 million, net of cash acquired for business acquisitions, and $3.2 million for purchases of strategic investments.
Contracts that contain multiple performance obligations require an allocation of the transaction price to each performance obligation based on a relative standalone selling price ("SSP"). 5) Recognize revenue when or as we satisfy a performance obligation Revenue is recognized at the time the related performance obligation is satisfied by transferring the promised service to a customer.
Contracts that contain multiple performance obligations require an allocation of the transaction price to each performance obligation based on a relative standalone selling price, or SSP. 5) Recognize revenue when or as we satisfy a performance obligation Revenue is recognized at the time the related performance obligation is satisfied by transferring the promised service to a customer.
Revenue Recognition In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 606, Revenue From Contracts With Customers ("ASC 606"), revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of promised services. The amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration that we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for these services.
Revenue Recognition In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, Topic 606, Revenue From Contracts With Customers, or ASC 606, revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of promised services. The amount of revenue recognized reflects the consideration that we expect to be entitled to receive in exchange for these services.
Interest Expense Interest expense consists primarily of amortization of debt discount and issuance costs, recognition of contractual interest expense related to the Notes, and gains and losses related to changes in the fair value of interest rate swaps .
Interest Expense Interest expense consists primarily of amortization of debt issuance costs, recognition of contractual interest expense related to the Notes, and gains and losses related to changes in the fair value of interest rate swaps .
We apply judgment in 81 Table of Contents determining the customer’s ability and intent to pay, which is based on a variety of factors, including the customer’s historical payment experience or, in the case of a new customer, credit and financial information pertaining to the customer. 2) Identify the performance obligations in the contract Performance obligations promised in a contract are identified based on the services that will be transferred to the customer that are both capable of being distinct, whereby the customer can benefit from the service either on its own or together with other resources that are readily available from third parties or from us, and are distinct in the context of the contract, whereby the transfer of the services is separately identifiable from other promises in the contract.
We apply judgment in determining the customer’s ability and intent to pay, which is based on a variety of factors, including the customer’s historical payment experience or, in the case of a new customer, credit and financial information pertaining to the customer. 2) Identify the performance obligations in the contract Performance obligations promised in a contract are identified based on the services that will be transferred to the customer that are both capable of being distinct, whereby the customer can benefit from the service either on its own or together with other resources that are readily available from third parties or from us, and are distinct in the context of the contract, whereby the transfer of the services is separately identifiable from other promises in the contract.
Gross Profit and Gross Margin Gross profit, or revenue less cost of revenue, and gross margin, or gross profit as a percentage of revenue, have been and will continue to be affected by various factors, including the timing of our acquisition of new customers and our renewals of and follow-on sales to existing customers, the average sales price of our services, mix of services offered in our solutions, including new product introductions, the data center and bandwidth costs associated with operating our cloud platform, the extent to which we expand our customer support and cloud operations organizations and the extent to which we can increase 66 Table of Contents the efficiency of our technology, infrastructure and data centers through technological improvements.
Gross Profit and Gross Margin Gross profit, or revenue less cost of revenue, and gross margin, or gross profit as a percentage of revenue, have been and will continue to be affected by various factors, including the timing of our acquisition of new customers and our renewals of and follow-on sales to existing customers, the average sales price of our services, mix of services offered in our solutions, including new product introductions, the data center and bandwidth costs associated with operating our cloud platform, the extent to which we expand our customer support and cloud operations organizations and the extent to which we can increase the efficiency of our technology, infrastructure and data centers through technological improvements.
Net cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows resulting from an increase of $183.9 million in accounts receivable primarily due to timing of billings and collections, an increase of $177.0 million in deferred contract acquisition costs, as our sales commission payments increased due to the addition of new customers and expansion of our existing customer subscriptions, an increase of $39.9 million in prepaid expenses, other current and noncurrent assets, a decrease of $32.2 million in operating lease liabilities primarily due to lease payments and a decrease of $8.4 million in accounts payable.
Net cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows resulting from an increase of $183.9 million in accounts receivable primarily due to timing of billings and collections, an increase of $177.0 million in deferred contract acquisition costs, as our sales commission payments increased due to the addition of new customers and expansion of our existing customer subscriptions, an increase of $39.9 million in prepaid expenses, other current and noncurrent assets, a 78 Table of Contents decrease of $32.2 million in operating lease liabilities primarily due to lease payments and a decrease of $8.4 million in accounts payable.
Our dollar-based net retention rate may fluctuate due to a number of factors, including the performance of our cloud platform, our success in selling bigger deals, including deals for all employees with our higher-end bundles, selling multiple-pillars from the start of our contract with new customers, faster upsells within a year, the timing and the rate of ARR expansion of our existing customers, potential changes in our rate of renewals and other risk factors described elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our dollar-based net retention rate may fluctuate due to a number of factors, including the performance of our cloud platform, our success in selling bigger deals, including deals for all employees with our higher-end bundles, selling multiple-pillars from the start of our contract with new customers, faster upsells within a year, the timing and the rate of ARR expansion of our existing 64 Table of Contents customers, potential changes in our rate of renewals and other risk factors described elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Net cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows resulting from an 79 Table of Contents increase of $158.5 million in deferred contract acquisition costs, as our sales commission payments increased due to the addition of new customers and expansion of our existing customer subscriptions, an increase of $143.3 million in accounts receivable primarily due to timing of billings and collections, a decrease of $27.7 million in operating lease liabilities primarily due to lease payments and an increase of $10.3 million in prepaid expenses, other current and noncurrent assets.
Net cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows resulting from an increase of $158.5 million in deferred contract acquisition costs, as our sales commission payments increased due to the addition of new customers and expansion of our existing customer subscriptions, an increase of $143.3 million in accounts receivable primarily due to timing of billings and collections, a decrease of $27.7 million in operating lease liabilities primarily due to lease payments and an increase of $10.3 million in prepaid expenses, other current and noncurrent assets.
Our cash equivalents and investments consist of highly liquid investments in money market funds, U.S. treasury securities, U.S. government agency securities and corporate debt securities. In June 2020, we completed the private offering of the Notes with an aggregate principal amount of $1,150.0 million.
Our cash equivalents and investments consist of highly liquid investments in money market funds, U.S. treasury securities, U.S. government agency securities, certificates of deposit and corporate debt securities. In June 2020, we completed the private offering of the Notes with an aggregate principal amount of $1,150.0 million.
This effectively represents recurring dollars that we expect in the next 12-month period from the cohort of customers that existed on the last day of the same reporting period in the prior fiscal year. 62 Table of Contents • Numerator: We measure the ARR for that same cohort of customers representing all subscriptions based on confirmed customer orders booked by us as of the end of the reporting period.
This effectively represents recurring dollars that we expect in the next 12-month period from the cohort of customers that existed on the last day of the same reporting period in the prior fiscal year. • Numerator: We measure the ARR for that same cohort of customers representing all subscriptions based on confirmed customer orders booked by us as of the end of the reporting period.
We determine SSP based on our overall pricing objectives, taking into consideration the type of subscription and support services and professional and other services, the geographical region of the customer and the number of users. Variable Consideration Revenue from sales is recorded at the net sales price, which is the transaction price, and includes estimates of variable consideration.
We determine SSP based on our overall pricing objectives, taking into consideration the type of subscription and support services and professional and other services, the geographical region of the customer and the number of users. 81 Table of Contents Variable Consideration Revenue from sales is recorded at the net sales price, which is the transaction price, and includes estimates of variable consideration.
Our actual results could vary as a result of, and our future capital requirements, both near-term and long-term, will depend on, many factors, including our growth rate, the timing and extent of spending to support our research and development efforts, the expansion of sales and marketing and international operating activities, the timing of new introductions of solutions or features, and the continuing market acceptance of our services, the impact of macroeconomic conditions, such as high inflation and recessionary environments, and global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic to our and our customers', vendors' and partners' businesses.
Our actual results could vary as a result of, and our future capital requirements, both near-term and long-term, will depend on, many factors, including our growth rate, the timing and extent of spending to support our research and development efforts, the expansion of sales and marketing and international operating activities, the timing of new introductions of solutions or features, and the continuing market acceptance of our services, the impact of macroeconomic conditions, such as high inflation and recessionary environments, and the impact of global crises to our and our customers', vendors' and partners' businesses.
Professional and Other Services Revenue Professional and other services revenue consists of fees associated with providing deployment advisory services that educate and assist our customers on the best use of our solutions, as well as advise customers on best practices as they deploy 82 Table of Contents our solution. These services are distinct from subscription and support services.
Professional and Other Services Revenue Professional and other services revenue consists of fees associated with providing deployment advisory services that educate and assist our customers on the best use of our solutions, as well as advise customers on best practices as they deploy our solution. These services are distinct from subscription and support services.
For example, a contract for $3.0 million with a contractual term of three years would have an ARR of $1.0 million as long as our customer uses our cloud platform. Investing in Business Growth Since our founding, we have invested significantly in growing our business.
For example, a contract for $3.0 million with a contractual term of three years would have an ARR of $1.0 million as long as our customer uses our cloud platform. 63 Table of Contents Investing in Business Growth Since our founding, we have invested significantly in growing our business.
Refer to Note 8, Derivative Instruments and Note 10 , Convertible Senior Notes, of our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Effective August 1, 2022, we adopted ASU 2020-06.
For further information refer to Note 8, Derivative Instruments and Note 10 , Convertible Senior Notes, of our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Effective August 1, 2022, we adopted ASU 2020-06.
Our performance obligations consist of (i) our subscription and support services and (ii) professional and other services. 3) Determine the transaction price The transaction price is determined based on the consideration to which we expect to be entitled in exchange for transferring services to the customer.
Our performance obligations consist of (i) our subscription and support services and (ii) professional and other services. 80 Table of Contents 3) Determine the transaction price The transaction price is determined based on the consideration to which we expect to be entitled in exchange for transferring services to the customer.
Sales commissions for renewal of a contract are not considered commensurate with the commissions paid for the acquisition of the initial contract given the substantive difference in commission rates in proportion to their respective 83 Table of Contents contract values.
Sales commissions for renewal of a contract are not considered commensurate with the commissions paid for the acquisition of the initial contract given the substantive difference in commission rates in proportion to their respective contract values.
This further eliminated the need for amortization of the debt discount as interest expense and the portion of the issuance costs initially allocated to equity is now classified as debt and amortized as interest expense.
This further eliminated the need for amortization of the debt discount as interest expense and the portion of the issuance costs initially allocated to equity is now 71 Table of Contents classified as debt and amortized as interest expense.
New Customer Acquisition We believe that our ability to increase the number of customers, and more significantly customers in the Forbes Global 2000, on our cloud platform is an indicator of our market penetration and our future business opportunities. As of July 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we had over 7,700, 6,700 and 5,600 customers, respectively, across all major geographies.
New Customer Acquisition We believe that our ability to increase the number of customers, and more significantly customers in the Forbes Global 2000, on our cloud platform is an indicator of our market penetration and our future business opportunities. As of July 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, we had over 8,650, 7,700 and 6,700 customers, respectively, across all major geographies.
We believe that most organizations have yet to fully make these investments. Since we enable organizations to securely embrace digital transformation, we believe that the imperative for organizations to securely move to the cloud will increase demand for our cloud platform and broaden our customer base.
We believe that most organizations have yet to fully make these investments. As our cloud platform enables organizations to securely embrace digital transformation, we believe that the imperative for organizations to securely move to the cloud will increase demand for our cloud platform and broaden our customer base.
The overall increase was driven primarily by the expanded use of our cloud platform by existing and new customers, which led to an increase of $68.2 million for data center and equipment related costs for hosting and operating our cloud platform.
The change was driven primarily by the expanded use of our cloud platform by existing and new customers, which led to an increase of $70.2 million for data center and equipment-related costs for hosting and operating our cloud platform.
Additionally, some of the factors that may influence our operations are not within our control, such as general economic conditions, geopolitical developments and the impact of global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. We may be required to seek additional equity or debt financing.
Additionally, some of the factors that may influence our operations are not within our control, such as general economic conditions, geopolitical developments and the impact of global crises. We may be required to seek additional equity or debt financing.
Dollar-Based Net Retention Rate We believe that dollar-based net retention rate is a key metric to measure the long-term value of our customer relationships because it is driven by our ability to retain and expand the recurring revenue generated from our existing customers.
Dollar-Based Net Retention Rate We believe that dollar-based net retention rate is an indicator to measure the long-term value of our customer relationships because it is driven by our ability to retain and expand the recurring revenue generated from our existing customers.
We used an aggregate amount of $145.2 million of the net proceeds of the Notes to purchase the Capped Calls. We have generated significant losses from operations, as reflected in our accumulated deficit of $1,090.4 million as of July 31, 2023.
We used an aggregate amount of $145.2 million of the net proceeds of the Notes to purchase the Capped Calls. We have generated significant losses from operations, as reflected in our accumulated deficit of $1,148.1 million as of July 31, 2024.
Our foreseeable cash needs, in addition to our recurring operating costs, include our expected capital expenditures to support expansion of our infrastructure and workforce, lease obligations, purchase commitments, potential business acquisitions and other strategic transactions.
Our foreseeable cash needs, in addition to our recurring operating costs, include our expected capital expenditures to support expansion of our infrastructure and workforce, lease obligations, purchase commitments, potential business acquisitions, convertible senior notes repayment requirements and other strategic transactions.
We recognize subscription and support revenue ratably over the life of the contract, which is generally one to three years. As of July 31, 2023, we had expanded our operations to over 7,700 customers across major industries, with users in 185 countries.
We recognize subscription and support revenue ratably over the life of the contract, which is generally one to three years. As of July 31, 2024, we had expanded our operations to over 8,650 customers across major industries, with users in over 185 countries.
Government agencies and some of the largest enterprises in the world rely on us to support their digital transformation, including more than 640 of the Forbes Global 2000 as of July 31, 2023. We operate our business as one reportable segment. Our revenue has experienced significant growth in recent periods.
Government agencies and some of the largest enterprises in the world rely on us to support their digital transformation, including approximately 35% of the Forbes Global 2000 as of July 31, 2024. We operate our business as one reportable segment. Our revenue has experienced significant growth in recent periods.
Net cash inflows from changes in operating assets and liabilities were primarily the result of an increase of $262.4 million in deferred revenue from advance invoicing in accordance with our subscription contracts, an increase of $43.9 million in accrued compensation, an increase of $7.5 million in accounts payable and an increase of $6.5 million in accrued expenses, other current and noncurrent liabilities.
Net cash inflows from changes in operating assets and liabilities were primarily the result of an increase of $450.3 million in deferred revenue from advance invoicing in accordance with our subscription contracts, an increase of $43.6 million in accrued expenses, other current and noncurrent liabilities, an increase of $10.5 million in accrued compensation and an increase of $4.2 million in accounts payable.
In particular, litigation-related expenses related to significant litigation claims may result in significant fluctuations from period to period, as they are inherently subject to change and difficult to estimate.
In particular, litigation-related expenses related 69 Table of Contents to significant litigation claims may result in significant fluctuations from period to period, as they are inherently subject to change and difficult to estimate.
We expect we will continue to incur net losses for the foreseeable future, as we continue to invest in our sales and marketing organization to take advantage of our market opportunity, to invest in research and development efforts to enhance the functionality of our cloud platform, to incur additional compliance and other related costs as we operate as a public company, and to address any legal matters and related accruals, as further described in Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, of the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We expect we will continue to incur net losses for the foreseeable future, as we continue to invest in our sales and marketing organization to maximize our market opportunity, to invest in research and development efforts to enhance the functionality of our cloud platform, and to address any legal matters and related accruals, as further described in Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, of the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Because our customers have repeat buying patterns and the average term of our contracts is more than 12 months, we measure this metric over a set of customers who were with us as of the last day of the same reporting period in the prior fiscal year. Our dollar-based net retention rate includes customer attrition.
Because our customers have repeat buying patterns and the average term of our contracts is more than 12 months, we measure this metric over a set of customers who were with us as of the last day of the same reporting period in the prior fiscal year.
Sales and Marketing Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of employee compensation and related expenses, including salaries, bonuses and benefits for our sales and marketing employees, sales commissions that are recognized as expenses over the period of benefit, stock-based compensation expense, marketing programs, travel and entertainment expenses, expenses for conferences and events, amortization of intangible assets acquired through our business acquisitions and allocated overhead expenses.
Operating expenses also include overhead expenses for facilities, IT, depreciation expense and amortization expense. 68 Table of Contents Sales and Marketing Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of employee compensation and related expenses, including salaries, bonuses and benefits for our sales and marketing employees, sales commissions that are recognized as expenses over the period of benefit, stock-based compensation expense, marketing programs, travel and entertainment expenses, expenses for conferences and events, amortization of intangible assets acquired through our business acquisitions and allocated overhead expenses.
As of July 31, 2023, we had over 640 of the Forbes Global 2000 as customers. Our ability to continue to grow these numbers will increase our future opportunities for renewals and follow-on sales.
As of July 31, 2024, we had approximately 35% of the Forbes Global 2000 as customers. Our ability to continue to grow these numbers will increase our future opportunities for renewals and follow-on sales.
We generally experience seasonality in terms of when we enter into agreements with our customers. We typically enter into a higher percentage of agreements with new customers, as well as renewal agreements with existing customers, in our second and fourth fiscal quarters.
We generally experience seasonality in terms of when we enter into agreements with our customers. We typically enter into a higher percentage of agreements with new customers, as well as renewal agreements with existing customers, in the second half of our fiscal year.
Net cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows resulting from an increase of $137.7 million in deferred contract acquisition costs, as our sales commission payments increased due to the addition of new customers and expansion of our existing customer subscriptions, an increase of $111.6 million in accounts receivable primarily due to timing of billings and collections, a decrease of $22.1 million in operating lease liabilities primarily due to lease payments and an increase of $3.4 million in prepaid expenses, other current and noncurrent assets.
Net cash inflows were partially offset by cash outflows resulting from an increase of $200.3 million in deferred contract acquisition costs, as our sales commission payments increased due to the addition of new customers and expansion of our existing customer subscriptions, an increase of $153.0 million in accounts receivable primarily due to timing of billings and collections, a decrease of $49.2 million in operating lease liabilities primarily due to lease payments and an increase of $40.0 million in prepaid expenses, other current and noncurrent assets.
Certain Factors Affecting Our Performance Increased Internet Traffic and Adoption of Cloud-Based Software and Security The adoption of cloud applications and infrastructure, explosion of internet traffic volumes and shift to mobile-first computing generally, and the pace at which enterprises adopt the internet as their corporate network in particular, impact our ability to drive market adoption of our cloud platform.
These macroeconomic conditions may impact the future demand for subscriptions of our cloud platform. 62 Table of Contents Certain Factors Affecting Our Performance Increased Internet Traffic and Adoption of Cloud-Based Software and Security The adoption of cloud applications and infrastructure, explosion of internet traffic volumes and shift to mobile-first computing generally, and the pace at which enterprises adopt the internet as their corporate network in particular, impact our ability to drive market adoption of our cloud platform.
However, as a result of the challenging economic environment, potential new customers are increasingly taking longer to make purchasing decisions and requiring additional approvals for large expenditures. We expect customer cautiousness to continue in the near term, elongating our sales cycles and the timing of large deals. Follow-On Sales We typically expand our relationship with our customers over time.
However, as a result of the challenging and uncertain economic environment, potential new customers are carefully considering purchasing decisions, particularly for large expenditures. We expect customer cautiousness to continue in the near term, elongating our sales cycles and the timing of large deals. Follow-On Sales We typically expand our relationship with our customers over time.
As of July 31, 2023, we had deferred revenue of $1,439.7 million, of which $1,281.1 million was recorded as a current liability and is expected to be recorded as revenue in the next 12 months, provided all other revenue recognition criteria have been met.
As of July 31, 2024, we had deferred revenue of $1,895.0 million, of which $1,643.9 million was recorded as a current liability and is expected to be recorded as revenue in the next 12 months, provided all other revenue recognition criteria have been met.
Personnel expenses are the most significant component of operating expenses and consist of salaries, benefits, bonuses, stock-based compensation expense and, with respect to sales and marketing expenses, sales commissions that are recognized as expenses over the period of benefit. Operating expenses also include overhead expenses for facilities, IT, depreciation expense and amortization expense.
Personnel expenses are the most significant component of operating expenses and consist of salaries, benefits, bonuses, stock-based compensation expense and, with respect to sales and marketing expenses, sales commissions that are recognized as expenses over the period of benefit.
We typically invoice our customers annually in advance, and to a lesser extent quarterly in advance, monthly in advance or multi-year in advance. Calculated billings increased $554.0 million, or 37%, in fiscal 2023 over fiscal 2022, and $547.5 million, or 59%, in fiscal 2022 over fiscal 2021.
We typically invoice our customers annually in advance, and to a lesser extent quarterly in advance, monthly in advance or multi-year in advance. Calculated billings increased $587.6 million, or 29%, in fiscal 2024 over fiscal 2023, and $554.0 million, or 37%, in fiscal 2023 over fiscal 2022.
Additionally, our employee-related expenses increased by $41.8 million, inclusive of an increase of $15.3 million in stock-based compensation expense, driven primarily by a 25% increase in headcount in our customer support and cloud operations organizations. The remainder of the increase was primarily attributable to increased expenses of $7.4 million in facility and IT services.
Additionally, our employee-related expenses increased by $44.4 million , inclusive of an increase of $11.7 million in stock-based compensation expense, driven primarily by an increase in headcount in our customer support and cloud operations organizations. The remainder of the increase was primarily attributable to increased expenses of $2.0 million in facility and IT services.
Net cash provided by financing activities of $41.3 million during fiscal 2022 was primarily attributable to $34.6 million in proceeds from issuance of common stock under the ESPP and $6.9 million in proceeds from the exercise of stock options.
Net cash provided by financing activities of $46.0 million during fiscal 2023 was primarily attributable to $42.3 million in proceeds from issuance of common stock under the ESPP and $3.9 million in proceeds from the exercise of stock options.
Our fiscal years ended July 31, 2023, July 31, 2022 and July 31, 2021 are referred to as fiscal 2023, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, respectively.
Our fiscal year ended July 31, 2024, July 31, 2023 and July 31, 2022 are referred to as fiscal 2024, fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, respectively.
To establish ARR for a customer, we use the total amount of each order booked to compute the annual recurring value of revenue that we would recognize if the customer continues to renew all contractual subscriptions.
These purchases increase the annual recurring revenue, or ARR, attributable to our customers over time. To establish ARR for a customer, we use the total amount of each order booked to compute the annual recurring value of revenue that we would recognize if the customer continues to renew all contractual subscriptions.
We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments will be sufficient to fund our operating and capital needs for at least the next 12 months from the issuance of our financial statements.
We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments will be sufficient to fund our working capital, capital expenditure, and convertible senior notes repayment requirements for at least the next 12 months from the issuance of our financial statements.
Year Ended July 31, 2023 2022 2021 (in thousands) Revenue $ 1,616,952 $ 1,090,946 $ 673,100 Add: Total deferred revenue, end of period 1,439,676 1,021,123 630,601 Less: Total deferred revenue, beginning of period (1,021,123) (630,601) (369,767) Calculated billings $ 2,035,505 $ 1,481,468 $ 933,934 65 Table of Contents Components of Results of Operations Revenue We generate revenue primarily from sales of subscriptions to access our cloud platform, together with related support services.
Year Ended July 31, 2024 2023 2022 (in thousands) Revenue $ 2,167,771 $ 1,616,952 $ 1,090,946 Add: Total deferred revenue, end of period 1,894,974 1,439,676 1,021,123 Less: Total deferred revenue, beginning of period (1,439,676) (1,021,123) (630,601) Calculated billings $ 2,623,069 $ 2,035,505 $ 1,481,468 Components of Results of Operations Revenue We generate revenue primarily from sales of subscriptions to access our cloud platform, together with related support services.
We leverage our land-and-expand model with the goal of generating incremental revenue, often within the term of the initial subscription, by increasing sales to our existing customers in one of three ways: • expanding deployment of our cloud platform to cover additional users; • upgrading to a more advanced Business or Transformation edition; and • selling a subscription to a new solution or product, for example selling a ZPA subscription to a ZIA customer or a ZIA subscription to a ZPA customer. 61 Table of Contents These purchases increase the Annual Recurring Revenue ("ARR") attributable to our customers over time.
We leverage our land-and-expand model with the goal of generating incremental revenue, often within the term of the initial subscription, by increasing sales to our existing customers in one of three ways: • expanding deployment of our cloud platform to cover additional users; • upgrading to more advanced capabilities for their current purchases; and • selling a subscription to a new solution or product, for example selling a ZPA subscription to a ZIA customer or a ZIA subscription to a ZPA customer.
The following table sets forth our results of operations for the periods presented as a percentage of our revenue: Year Ended July 31, 2023 2022 2021 Revenue 100% 100% 100% Cost of revenue 22 22 22 Gross margin 78 78 78 Operating expenses Sales and marketing 59 67 68 Research and development 22 27 26 General and administrative 11 14 15 Restructuring and other charges 1 — — Total operating expenses 93 108 109 Operating margin (15) (30) (31) Interest income 4 — 1 Interest expense — (5) (8) Other income (expense), net — — — Loss before income taxes (11) (35) (38) Provision for income taxes 1 1 1 Net loss (12)% (36)% (39)% 70 Table of Contents Comparison of Fiscal 2023 and Fiscal 2022 Revenue Year Ended July 31, Change 2023 2022 $ % (in thousands) Revenue $ 1,616,952 $ 1,090,946 $ 526,006 48 % Revenue increased by $526.0 million, or 48%, in fiscal 2023, compared to fiscal 2022.
The following table sets forth our results of operations for the periods presented as a percentage of our revenue: Year Ended July 31, 2024 2023 2022 Revenue 100% 100% 100% Cost of revenue 22 22 22 Gross margin 78 78 78 Operating expenses Sales and marketing 51 59 67 Research and development 23 22 27 General and administrative 10 11 14 Restructuring and other charges — 1 — Total operating expenses 84 93 108 Operating margin (6) (15) (30) Interest income 6 4 — Interest expense (1) — (5) Other expense, net — — — Loss before income taxes (1) (11) (35) Provision for income taxes 2 1 1 Net loss (3)% (12)% (36)% 72 Table of Contents Comparison of Fiscal 2024 and Fiscal 2023 Revenue Year Ended July 31, Change 2024 2023 $ % (in thousands) Revenue $ 2,167,771 $ 1,616,952 $ 550,819 34 % Revenue increased by $550.8 million, or 34%, in fiscal 2024, compared to fiscal 2023.
For fiscal 2023, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, our revenue was $1,617.0 million, $1,090.9 million and $673.1 million, respectively. We have incurred net losses in all periods since our inception. For fiscal 2023, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, our net loss was $202.3 million, $390.3 million and $262.0 million, respectively.
For fiscal 2024, fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, our revenue was $2,167.8 million, $1,617.0 million and $1,090.9 million, respectively. We have incurred net losses in all annual periods since our inception. For fiscal 2024, fiscal 2023 and fiscal 2022, our net loss was $57.7 million, $202.3 million and $390.3 million, respectively.
As of July 31, 2023, we did not have any relationships with unconsolidated organizations or financial partnerships, such as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes.
Accordingly, we cannot predict the mix of invoicing schedules in any given period. 77 Table of Contents As of July 31, 2024, we did not have any relationships with unconsolidated organizations or financial partnerships, such as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes.
We expect our general and administrative expenses to increase in absolute dollars for the foreseeable future, as we continue to incur compliance expenses and other related expenses necessary to operate as a public company, and due to any legal matters and related accruals, as further described in Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
We expect our general and administrative expenses to increase in absolute dollars for the foreseeable future as we increase the size of our general and administrative organizations, incur additional costs to support our business growth and due to any legal matters and related accruals, as further described in Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The following table summarizes our cash flows for the periods presented: Year Ended July 31, 2023 2022 2021 (in thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 462,343 $ 321,912 $ 202,040 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities $ (259,337) $ 374,063 $ (109,668) Net cash provided by financing activities $ 45,990 $ 41,337 $ 41,675 Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2023 was $462.3 million, which resulted from a net loss of $202.3 million, adjusted for non-cash charges of $636.1 million and net cash inflows of $28.6 million from changes in operating assets and liabilities.
The following table summarizes our cash flows for the periods presented: Year Ended July 31, 2024 2023 2022 (in thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 779,846 $ 462,343 $ 321,912 Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities $ (683,180) $ (259,337) $ 374,063 Net cash provided by financing activities $ 64,208 $ 45,990 $ 41,337 Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2024 was $779.8 million, which resulted from a net loss of $57.7 million, adjusted for non-cash charges of $771.5 million and net cash inflows of $66.1 million from changes in operating assets and liabilities.
The increase was driven primarily by higher interest rates and our increased balance of cash equivalents and short-term investments. Interest Expense Year Ended July 31, Change 2023 2022 $ % (in thousands) Interest expense $ (6,541) $ (56,579) $ 50,038 (88) % Interest expense decreased by $50.0 million for fiscal 2023, compared to fiscal 2022.
The change was driven primarily by higher interest rates and our increased balance of cash equivalents and short-term investments. Interest Expense Year Ended July 31, Change 2024 2023 $ % (in thousands) Interest expense $ (13,132) $ (6,541) $ (6,591) 101 % Interest expense increased by $6.6 million for fiscal 2024, compared to fiscal 2023.
Net cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2021 was $202.0 million, which resulted from a net loss of $262.0 million, adjusted for non-cash charges of $418.5 million and net cash inflows of $45.6 million from changes in operating assets and liabilities.
Net cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2023 was $462.3 million, which resulted from a net loss of $202.3 million, adjusted for non-cash charges of $636.1 million and net cash inflows of $28.6 million from changes in operating assets and liabilities.
Year Ended July 31, 2023 2022 2021 (in thousands) GAAP gross profit $ 1,254,120 $ 848,664 $ 522,783 Add: Stock-based compensation expense and related payroll taxes 40,297 25,292 15,272 Amortization expense of acquired intangible assets 9,574 7,975 6,468 Non-GAAP gross profit $ 1,303,991 $ 881,931 $ 544,523 GAAP gross margin 78 % 78 % 78 % Non-GAAP gross margin 81 % 81 % 81 % 63 Table of Contents Non-GAAP Income from Operations and Non-GAAP Operating Margin We define non-GAAP income from operations as GAAP loss from operations excluding stock-based compensation expense and related payroll taxes, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets, asset impairment related to facility exi t, and restructuring and other charges.
Year Ended July 31, 2024 2023 2022 (in thousands) GAAP gross profit $ 1,690,642 $ 1,254,120 $ 848,664 Add: Stock-based compensation expense and related payroll taxes 52,766 40,297 25,292 Amortization expense of acquired intangible assets 12,879 9,574 7,975 Non-GAAP gross profit $ 1,756,287 $ 1,303,991 $ 881,931 GAAP gross margin 78 % 78 % 78 % Non-GAAP gross margin 81 % 81 % 81 % Non-GAAP Income from Operations and Non-GAAP Operating Margin We define non-GAAP income from operations as GAAP loss from operations excluding stock-based compensation expense and related payroll taxes, amortization expense of acquired intangible assets, and restructuring and other charges.
Impact of macroeconomic conditions and global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic Recent changes in macroeconomic conditions such as high inflation and potential recessionary environments can cause uncertainty in our business.
Impact of Macroeconomic Conditions Recent changes in macroeconomic conditions such as high inflation, high interest rates and potential recessionary environments, geopolitical factors, such as the current conflicts between Russia and Ukraine and in the Middle East, and global health crises, such as the recent resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, can cause uncertainty in our business.
As of July 31, 2023, the accrued employee payroll contributions to our ESPP was $7.4 million, which will be used to purchase shares at the end of the current purchase period ending on December 15, 2023.
Payroll contributions accrued as of July 31, 2024 will be used to purchase shares at the end of the current ESPP purchase period ending on December 16, 2024.
The increase was driven primarily by an increase in users and sales of additional subscriptions to existing customers, which contributed $440.6 million in additional revenue. The remainder of the increase was primarily attributable to the addition of new customers, as we increased our customer base by 14%.
The change in revenue was driven primarily by an increase in users and sales of additional subscriptions to existing customers, which contributed $471.8 million in additional revenue. The remainder of the increase was primarily attributable to the addition of new customers, as we increased our customer bas e by 12% f rom fiscal 2023 to fiscal 2024 .
Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2021 of $109.7 million was primarily attributable to the purchases of short-term investments of $815.5 million, capital expenditures of $58.3 million to support the growth of our cloud platform, $40.5 million, net of cash acquired for business acquisitions and expenditures on strategic investments of $3.1 million.
Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2024 of $683.2 million was primarily attributable to the purchases of short-term investments of $1,291.0 million, $374.7 million, net of cash acquired for business acquisitions, capital expenditures of $194.9 million to support the growth and expansion of our cloud platform, and $2.0 million for purchases of strategic investments.
Other Income (Expense), Net Other income (expense), net consists primarily of foreign currency transaction gains and losses and changes in fair value of our non-designated derivative instruments. 68 Table of Contents Provision for Income Taxes Our provision for income taxes consists primarily of income and withholding taxes in the foreign jurisdictions, and U.S. income taxes from a tax law change related to mandatory capitalization of research and development expenses for tax years starting January 1, 2022.
Provision for Income Taxes Our provision for income taxes consists primarily of income and withholding taxes in the foreign jurisdictions, and U.S. income taxes from a tax law change related to mandatory capitalization of research and development expenses for tax years starting January 1, 2022.
We believe that free cash flow and free cash flow margin are useful indicators of liquidity that provide information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated from our operations that, after the investments in property, equipment and other assets and capitalized internal-use software, can be used for strategic initiatives, including investing in our business, and strengthening our financial position. 64 Table of Contents Free cash flow includes the cyclical impact of inflows and outflows resulting from contributions to our employee stock purchase plan for which the purchase period of approximately six months ends in each of our second and fourth fiscal quarters.
We believe that free cash flow and free cash flow margin are useful indicators of liquidity that provide information to management and investors about the amount of cash generated from our operations that, after the investments in property, equipment and other assets and capitalized internal-use software, can be used for strategic initiatives, including investing in our business, and strengthening our financial position.
Year Ended July 31, 2023 2022 2021 (in thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 462,343 $ 321,912 $ 202,040 Less: Purchases of property, equipment and other assets (97,197) (69,296) (48,165) Capitalized internal-use software (31,527) (21,284) (10,132) Free cash flow $ 333,619 $ 231,332 $ 143,743 As a percentage of revenue: Net cash provided by operating activities 29 % 30 % 30 % Less: Purchases of property, equipment and other assets (6) (7) (7) Capitalized internal-use software (2) (2) (2) Free cash flow margin 21 % 21 % 21 % Calculated Billings Calculated billings is a non-GAAP financial measure that we believe is a key metric to measure our periodic performance.
Payroll contributions ultimately used to purchase shares are reclassified to stockholders' equity on the purchase date. 66 Table of Contents Year Ended July 31, 2024 2023 2022 (in thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 779,846 $ 462,343 $ 321,912 Less: Purchases of property, equipment and other assets (144,588) (97,197) (69,296) Capitalized internal-use software (50,308) (31,527) (21,284) Free cash flow $ 584,950 $ 333,619 $ 231,332 As a percentage of revenue: Net cash provided by operating activities 36 % 29 % 30 % Less: Purchases of property, equipment and other assets (7) (6) (7) Capitalized internal-use software (2) (2) (2) Free cash flow margin 27 % 21 % 21 % Calculated Billings Calculated billings is a non-GAAP financial measure that we believe is a key metric to measure our periodic performance.
We capitalize our sales commissions and associated payroll taxes and recognize them as expenses over the estimated period of benefit.
We capitalize our sales commissions and associated payroll taxes that are incremental to the acquisition of channel partner and direct customer contracts and recognize them as expenses over the estimated period of benefit.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, as well as related disclosures. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis.
The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, as well as related disclosures. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis. Our estimates are based on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances.
The remainder of the increase was primarily attributable to increased expenses of $20.8 million in travel expenses, $17.8 million in marketing and advertising expense and $17.9 million in facility and IT services. 71 Table of Contents Research and Development Expenses Year Ended July 31, Change 2023 2022 $ % (in thousands) Research and development $ 349,735 $ 289,139 $ 60,596 21 % Research and development expenses increased by $60.6 million, or 21%, for fiscal 2023, compared to fiscal 2022, as we continued to develop and enhance the functionality of our cloud platform and integrate technologies acquired through our business combinations.
The remainder of the increase was primarily attributable to increased expenses of $30.2 million in marketing and advertising expenses, $16.4 million in travel expenses, $6.1 million in facility-related expenses and $3.0 million in professional services. 73 Table of Contents Research and Development Expenses Year Ended July 31, Change 2024 2023 $ % (in thousands) Research and development expenses $ 499,828 $ 349,735 $ 150,093 43 % Research and development expenses increased by $150.1 million, or 43%, for fiscal 2024, compared to fiscal 2023, as we continued to develop and enhance the functionality of our cloud platform and integrate technologies acquired through our business combinations.
Cost of Revenue and Gross Margin Year Ended July 31, Change 2023 2022 $ % (in thousands) Cost of revenue $ 362,832 $ 242,282 $ 120,550 50 % Gross margin 78 % 78 % Cost of revenue increased by $120.6 million, or 50%, in fiscal 2023, compared to fiscal 2022.
Cost of Revenue and Gross Margin Year Ended July 31, Change 2024 2023 $ % (in thousands) Cost of revenue $ 477,129 $ 362,832 $ 114,297 32 % Gross margin 78 % 78 % Cost of revenue increased by $114.3 million, or 32%, in fiscal 2024, compared to fiscal 2023.
Subscriptions that are invoiced annually in advance or multi-year in advance contribute significantly to our short-term and 78 Table of Contents long-term deferred revenue in comparison to our invoices issued quarterly in advance or monthly in advance. Accordingly, we cannot predict the mix of invoicing schedules in any given period.
Subscriptions that are invoiced annually in advance or multi-year in advance contribute significantly to our short-term and long-term deferred revenue in comparison to our invoices issued quarterly in advance or monthly in advance.
Subscription and related support services accounted for approximately 97% of our revenue for each of the fiscal 2023, fiscal 2022 and fiscal 2021, respectively. Our contracts with our customers do not at any time provide the customer with the right to take possession of the software that runs our cloud platform.
Subscription and related support services accounted for approximately 97% of our revenue for all periods presented. Our contracts with our customers do not at any time provide the customer with the right to take possession of the software that runs our cloud platform. Our customers may also purchase professional services, such as mapping, implementation, network design and training.
The increase was driven primarily by a 15% increase in headcount, resulting in an increase of $160.8 million in employee-related expenses, inclusive of an increase of $24.5 million in stock-based compensation expense, and an increase of $36.7 million in sales commissions expense.
The change was driven primarily by an increase of $98.3 million in employee-related expenses, inclusive of an increase of $31.1 million in sales commissions expense and an increase of $3.5 million in stock-based compensation expense.
General and Administrative Expenses Year Ended July 31, Change 2023 2022 $ % (in thousands) General and administrative $ 177,544 $ 151,735 $ 25,809 17 % General and administrative expenses increased by $25.8 million, or 17%, for fiscal 2023, compared to fiscal 2022.
General and Administrative Expenses Year Ended July 31, Change 2024 2023 $ % (in thousands) General and administrative expenses $ 212,052 $ 177,544 $ 34,508 19 % General and administrative expenses increased by $34.5 million, or 19%, for fiscal 2024, compared to fiscal 2023.
Non-cash charges primarily consisted of $258.5 million for stock-based compensation expense, $51.9 million for amortization of debt discount and issuance costs, $40.6 million for amortization of deferred contract acquisition costs, $29.7 million for depreciation and amortization expense, $21.0 million for non-cash operating lease costs, $11.7 million for amortization of investments premiums, net of accretion of purchase discounts, $6.8 million for amortization expense of acquired intangible assets, partially offset by deferred income taxes of $2.4 million.
Non-cash charges primarily consisted of $527.7 million for stock-based compensation expense, $130.1 million for amortization of deferred contract acquisition costs, $66.3 million for depreciation and amortization expense, $49.4 million for non-cash operating lease costs, $14.6 million for amortization expense of acquired intangible assets and $3.9 million for amortization of debt discount and issuance costs, partially offset by amortization (accretion) of investments purchased at a premium (discount) of $19.1 million and $5.6 million for deferred income taxes.
Our estimates are based on historical experience and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Our actual results could differ from these estimates. We have identified certain accounting policies that are significant to the preparation of our financial statements. These accounting policies are important for an understanding of our financial condition and results of operations.
Our actual results could differ from these estimates. We refer to accounting estimates of this type as critical accounting policies and estimates, which we discuss below. We have identified certain accounting policies that are significant to the preparation of our financial statements. These accounting policies are important for an understanding of our financial condition and results of operations.
The increase was driven primarily by an increase of $109.4 million in employee-related expenses, inclusive of an increase of $50.5 million in stock-based compensation expense, driven by a 54% increase in headcount.
The change was driven primarily by an increase of $145.9 million in employee-related expenses, inclusive of an increase of $62.6 million in stock-based compensation expense, primarily due to an increase in headcount.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Refer to Note 1, Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information regarding recently issued accounting pronouncements.
We periodically review these deferred costs to determine whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that could impact the period of benefit of these deferred contract acquisition costs. 82 Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements Refer to Note 1, Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information regarding recently issued accounting pronouncements.
Contractual Obligations and Commitments Our principal commitments consist of obligations under our convertible senior notes, real estate arrangements, co-location and bandwidth arrangements and non-cancelable purchase obligations. For additional information, Refer to Note 10, Convertible Senior Notes, Note 11, Operating Leases and Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, of the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
For additional information, refer to Note 10, Convertible Senior Notes, Note 11, Operating Leases and Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, of the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP.
However, we expect our research and development expenses to decrease as a percentage of our revenue over the long term, although our research and development expenses may fluctuate as a percentage of our revenue from period to period due to the timing and extent of these expenses. 67 Table of Contents General and Administrative General and administrative expenses consist primarily of employee-related expenses, including salaries and bonuses, stock-based compensation expense and employee benefit expenses for our finance, legal, human resources and administrative personnel, as well as professional fees for external legal services (including certain litigation-related expenses), accounting and other related consulting services.
General and Administrative General and administrative expenses consist primarily of employee-related expenses, including salaries and bonuses, stock-based compensation expense and employee benefit expenses for our finance, legal, human resources and administrative personnel, as well as professional fees for external legal services (including certain litigation-related expenses), accounting and other related consulting services.
We typically invoice our customers annually in advance, and to a lesser extent quarterly in advance, monthly in advance or multi-year in advance. We recognize revenue ratably over the life of the contract. Amounts that have been invoiced are recorded in deferred revenue, or they are recorded in revenue if the revenue recognition criteria have been met.
We 67 Table of Contents recognize revenue ratably over the life of the contract. Amounts that have been invoiced are recorded in deferred revenue, or they are recorded in revenue if the revenue recognition criteria have been met.
We also expect that calculated billings will be affected by seasonality in terms of when we enter into agreements with customers; and the mix of billings in each reporting period as we typically invoice customers annually in advance, and to a lesser extent quarterly in advance, monthly in advance or multi-year in advance.
As calculated billings continues to grow in absolute terms, we expect our calculated billings growth rate to trend down over time. We also expect that calculated billings will be affected by seasonality in terms of when we enter into agreements with customers; and the mix of billings in each reporting period .