One approach to a capstone project is to identify a specific piece of technology in use in the marketplace, and re-evaluate it using current computer science information. In many cases, technology and computer designs evolve so quickly that even cutting edge technology is rapidly outdated. For example, wireless communications are now integrated with internet based supply chain management and RFID technology in order to automate inventory and ordering processes. Students can create a technology assessment capstone project that examines the operation of a retail store's existing inventory management system. The project would evaluate the strengths of weaknesses of the existing system, and then integrate current wireless, computer, and internet technologies to propose a more accurate, and cost effective system.
Software is designed to solve problems. Every commercially successful software application is written to create practical solutions for existing problems, or create a valuable service. Students completing a computer science capstone project can evaluate an existing piece of software, or write a new piece of software to meets a need in the marketplace. For example, computer and wireless device operating systems are constantly under scrutiny. With every new OS release or upgrade, the tech community quickly identities the technology's strengths and weaknesses. A challenging capstone project would guide students through the process that conceptualizes and writes a new and improved OS from the ground up.
For students who may be involved in internships with businesses outside of the academic settings, another approach to a capstone project is a project that proposes a solution for a specific industry. For example, students working for an auto manufacturer can complete projects which meet the challenges of that changing industry. Students who work in the logistics and shipping industry, for companies such as UPS or FedEx, can complete a project which evaluates the company's computerized computer tracking system, and proposes upgrades and improvements.
Overall, capstone projects can be designed for almost any economic sector, business, or commercial enterprise. The projects are flexible, and students are allowed to design projects which play to their strengths. Students who have working relationship with specific companies can propose a capstone project based on their field experience. Students drawn to the theoretical and conceptual aspects of computer science can propose an independent project that would be closely supervised by an academic adviser. Students who work well in groups can join forces, and propose a collaborative project. A project that combines their individual skills allows each of the students to demonstrate their expertise, and the group can tackle more complex projects than if they worked individually.