Modelling and boundary control for the Burgers equation is studied in this paper. Modelling has been done via processing of numerical observations through proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) with Galerkin projection. This results in a set of spatial basis functions together with a set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) describing the temporal evolution. Since the dynamics described by the Burgers equation are non-linear, the corresponding reduced-order dynamics turn out to be non-linear. The presented analysis explains how the free boundary condition appears as a control input in the ODEs and how controller design can be accomplished. The issues of control system synthesis are discussed from the point of practicality, performance and robustness. The numerical results obtained are in good compliance with the theoretical claims. A comparison of various different approaches is presented. © 2004 Taylor and Francis Ltd.