Internet solutions provider Melbourne IT (ASX:MLB) and global IP management specialist, Computer Patent Annuities Limited Partnership (CPA) have formed an alliance to provide a domain name and online brand management service.

The service agreement between the two companies was formed following research, conducted by CPA, into domain name and trademark management. Feedback suggested that the ownership of domain names within companies had shifted from IT to IP departments, creating significant change in the strategic management of domains names and online brand protection, according to CPA.

According to the alliance partners, there are a number of service providers in the digital brand environment, but this is the first time that an IP company has developed a strategic alliance with an IT company to deliver this kind of service.

This alliance comes as part of CPAӒs commitment to providing clients with an ever improving range of market-leading IP solutions. By combining CPAs 35 years of intellectual property expertise and dedication to high-level account management with Melbourne ITҒs widely recognised technical and domain industry knowledge, we are able to offer our clients a superior domains and digital content solution said Martin Burke, CPAԒs commercial and marketing director. By amalgamating this with other digital content services already provided by CPA, we are able to offer clients a comprehensive brand-protection solution covering all aspects of corporate domains services and Internet content watchingӔ.

Theo Hnarakis, Melbourne ITs group managing director and CEO said: ғMelbourne IT Corporate Brand Services (a key division of the Melbourne IT Group of companies) helps commercial enterprises and government organisations throughout the world manage and protect their brands online. We are a global provider of online solutions and as a market leader in the corporate domain management and online brand protection area, we are delighted to have the opportunity of forming this alliance with a global leader in CPA. This strategic alliance will provide a platform for Melbourne ITs growing suite of services in protecting and
managing online brands. There are key synergies between the two businesses and we are looking ahead with enthusiasm to providing for client needs though this key alliance.Ҕ

Mr Burke said: Melbourne IT Corporate Brand Services were the obvious choice because of their proven track record of corporate brand management, particularly with large corporations and their secure technical infrastructure. At CPA we believe a balance between technology and personal service is important, so by working together our clients will definitely benefit from a range of service enhancements.Ӕ