Andy Boucher

Andy Boucher is a Lecturer in the Department of Design at Goldsmiths, University of London, Faculty of Arts & Humanities. He is a core member of the Interaction Research Studio, where he has been actively involved in numerous design research projects focusing on human-computer interaction, particularly through cultural probes, ludic design, and environmental interaction.

His research interests span multiple domains within interaction design. Boucher has made significant contributions to the development of cultural probe methodologies, creating tools like ProbeTools and TaskCam that enable novel forms of user research. His work often explores the intersection of technology and everyday environments, particularly focusing on how people interact with nature through technological means, as evidenced by the My Naturewatch project. He has also contributed to research on domestic technologies, energy awareness systems like Energy Babble, and technologies for elderly care settings such as The Photostroller.

Boucher's publication record shows a consistent trajectory of research in human-centered design, with a particular emphasis on practical, tangible implementations rather than purely theoretical work. His recent work (2017-2021) has increasingly focused on nature-technology interactions and community engagement through DIY approaches, while earlier work (2007-2015) explored more foundational aspects of ludic design, cultural probes, and domestic technologies. His research consistently demonstrates a commitment to designing for real-world contexts through field studies and community engagement.

Boucher has been involved in numerous collaborative projects with William Gaver and other colleagues at Goldsmiths. He has contributed to several notable design projects including Datacatcher (a system for batch deployment of location-aware devices), Energy Babble (an energy awareness system), and The Prayer Companion (a technology exploring spiritual practices). His work has been exhibited internationally at venues including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, and the National Media Museum in Bradford.

As a design researcher, Boucher has focused on creating practical tools and systems that can be deployed in real-world settings. His approach emphasizes hands-on making and prototyping, often involving batch production of devices for field studies. He has developed expertise in creating research tools that facilitate novel forms of user engagement and data collection, particularly through camera-based systems and environmental sensors.