Applied Computer Technologies (ACT) has signed a partnership agreement with Itex, the largest UK offshore IT service provider, to supply a range of services to its clients on the Island and overseas.

The companies have come together under the 'Offshore Alliance' and from next month will be working jointly to deliver the technology solutions to companies operating in the offshore financial services sector.

The move follows the rapid increase in the number of firms that have a multi-jurisdictional presence around the world, with numerous surveys showing that more than half of all businesses in the global financial services market have offices in an offshore location.

The Offshore Alliance recognises the unique requirements and differing technology needs of companies in the offshore financial services sector, and offers a localised service but with a global reach. The partnership means that ACT customers will have one single point of contact looking after their IT needs in all of their locations, allowing them to focus on their core areas of expertise.

Clients will have access to a variety of outsourced managed services, supported by a round-the-clock service desk and Operations Centre, with the assurance that all client data will remain offshore.

Itex has been established for more than 30 years and employs more than 150 people, concentrating on outsourced managed services with multiple data centre and business recovery facilities, located exclusively offshore.

Dr. Ian Jauncey, chairman of Itex, said: "We work with many organisations through our operating companies in Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man that have offices in other offshore jurisdictions around the world, including Bermuda.

"From speaking with them, we have identified a real need for efficient offshore IT provision which covers all of these jurisdictions, as it doesn't make sense for a company to deal with one provider in one jurisdiction, and another provider elsewhere. Life would be so much easier for them if they had one point of contact and one service level agreement for IT provision in all of their offshore locations to ensure cost-effective, seamless service provision."

David Bart, general manager of ACT, said: "By signing up to the Offshore Alliance with Itex, we know we are entering into a relationship with a trusted IT company which has a strong reputation for managed service provision and delivery. This is great news for companies based in Bermuda and the wider offshore world, and I look forward to developing our links with them from now on."

The Offshore Alliance launch event for Bermuda will take place at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess on Wednesday, December 3.