v3.7.0.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
shares in Millions
3 Months Ended
Apr. 30, 2017
May 31, 2017
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name Workday, Inc.  
Entity Central Index Key 0001327811  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --01-31  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Apr. 30, 2017  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2018  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q1  
Amendment Flag false  
Trading Symbol WDAY  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   207