Software applications make it easier for computer users to perform tasks. The development of useful software applications is generally a long-term undertaking, because the process of software development requires a lot of planning, testing and debugging. Software applications may manage information, media, Web content or databases. With a software application project, you draw up an initial plan with concept graphics and sample code, then develop the project using a programming editor and compiler. One idea is to develop a business-management program that organizes files from different departments, such as accounting, HR and finance. The challenge in this program would be to write an algorithm for recognizing which data are relevant in which situation.
In the past, computer science was concerned mostly with theory and mathematics. Today, however, subjects like game design are taken seriously by computer scientists. Game design is usually a long-term undertaking because it requires that you write code, develop graphics and test the gameplay. Game genres that you can work on include platform games, multiplayer shooters and multiplayer role-playing games. A project on multiplayer interfaces could develop an algorithm that allows an unlimited number of players to interact at once over mobile phones. The challenge here is condensing user interaction data so mobile phones can handle it.
Artificial intelligence is one computer topic that crosses over with other disciplines. Philosophers and psychologists are very interested in whether it is possible for computers to display true intelligence (such as critical thinking and creativity), and many computer scientists are working to develop machines that do. Artificial intelligence covers everything from pattern recognition to environmental adaptation. One A.I. project involves writing a script for a robot that takes restaurant orders from customers. To complete this project, you need to write voice-recognition and pattern-recognition scripts.
When it comes to computers, specialized knowledge is a must-have. For computer scientists and software developers to make useful applications, they must have expertise in every aspect of the application's functionality. By collaborating internationally over the Internet, computer scientists can take advantage of each other's localized knowledge. For example, a project aiming at a program for simulating tide activity around the world could get international experts to observe and record the ocean movement in their locales. These experts could then conference over the Internet to share their data and develop models, using both text and audio/visual media.