What is the main purpose of this 8-K filing?

The primary purpose of this 8-K filing is to formally announce and provide investors with ServiceNow, Inc.'s financial results for the three months and the full year ended December 31, 2012, via an attached press release.

Why does ServiceNow provide non-GAAP financial results?

ServiceNow provides non-GAAP financial results, such as excluding stock-based compensation expense, to offer investors supplemental information that facilitates the analysis of the company's core operating results and allows for better comparison of performance across different reporting periods.

How does ServiceNow define 'billings' and why is it important?

ServiceNow defines 'billings' as revenue plus the change in total deferred revenue. Management believes this metric offers investors useful supplemental information about the performance of the business and helps them better understand sales volumes and overall business performance.

Is the information in this 8-K considered 'filed' with the SEC for liability purposes?

No, the information furnished under Item 2.02 of this 8-K, including the press release, is not deemed 'filed' for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and therefore is not subject to the liabilities of that section. It's intended as informational disclosure.

NOW 8-K: Earnings & Results

Summary

ServiceNow, Inc. (NOW) filed an 8-K on January 30, 2013, primarily to announce its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2012. This report provides investors with key financial performance data and insights into the company's operational health. The company also detailed its use of non-GAAP financial measures, explaining their relevance for understanding core operating performance and cash flow generation, which is crucial for investors seeking a deeper financial understanding beyond standard GAAP reporting.

Key Highlights

1Announcement of fourth quarter and full year 2012 financial results.
2Disclosure of financial performance information for the period ending December 31, 2012.
3Inclusion of a press release (Exhibit 99.1) detailing the financial results.
4Emphasis on the use of non-GAAP financial measures, including gross margins, operating margins, net income/loss, EPS, free cash flow, and billings.
5Explanation of management's rationale for providing non-GAAP measures to aid investor analysis of core operations and performance comparison.
6Definition of free cash flow as GAAP operating cash flow minus capital expenditures, highlighting its importance for business investment and operations.
7Definition of billings as revenue plus the change in deferred revenue, presented as a metric for understanding sales volumes and business performance.

ServiceNow, Inc. 8-K Report, Financial Results (Jan 30, 2013)

Summary

Key Highlights

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