VUMAN was a company established by the University in 1981 to support commercial exploitation of research and inventions of University staff. The company's directors included University officers and experienced local business people. The company's early activities included computer software, furniture design, lasers and spectrometers, and the evaluation of medicines (Medeval Ltd.).
The file includes a 1981 report by PA Management Consultants Ltd. about commercial exploitation, which led to the formation of the company (formally incorporated on 29 October 1981). There is also material on the appointment of the chief executive, and recruitment to the company board, as well as details of a commercial dispute over VUwriter software.
Former reference: 619