Many IT students choose to develop software applications for their capstone projects. Some examples include:

Customer relationship management (CRM) software: One student developed a CRM platform that allowed small businesses to track customers, manage leads and sales, and get insights into purchasing trends. The application was built using Java and incorporated a MySQL database.

Inventory management system: Another student created a web-based inventory management system for a local hardware store. The system allowed employees to track inventory levels in real-time, generate restocking orders, and print barcoded labels for shelving. It was built with PHP and utilized both a MySQL database and barcode scanning hardware.

Expense tracking app: To help freelance consultants and small businesses better manage finances, one student designed a mobile expense tracking application. Developed natively for Android using Java, the app allowed users to scan or manually enter receipts which were then categorized and stored. It also generated expense reports that could be exported.

Campus transportation map: A transportation map of a large university was created by a student as a single page web application. Using the Google Maps API, the app incorporated an interactive campus map with icons indicating bus stops and routes. Users could get walking or driving directions between locations. It was built with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

Some IT students also undertake infrastructure-based projects, such as:

Network overhaul: One capstone project involved completely redesigning the network infrastructure for a small school district. The student implemented a more robust wired and wireless network using Cisco routers and switches. They also set up a centralized Active Directory domain, migrated users and devices, and configured network security policies.

Hyperconverged storage solution: To improve storage performance and capacity for a manufacturing company, a student deployed a VMware vSAN hyperconverged infrastructure. This included procuring and installing new servers with local SSD caching, configuring the vSAN in a stretched cluster across locations, and migrating virtual machines from a legacy SAN.

Cloud migration: As part of a cloud migration strategy, another student worked with a nonprofit to move their on-premise virtual infrastructure to Amazon Web Services. This included installing and configuring AWS tools like EC2, VPC, RDS, and S3 then migrating VMs, database, file shares, and developing deployment pipelines in CodePipeline.

Some capstone projects also focus on new technologies, such as:

Blockchain record keeping app: To explore blockchain use cases, a student developed a proof-of-concept desktop application for securely tracking financial transactions on a private Ethereum network. The app was built with Electron and Solidity smart contracts.

Serverless website: As serverless computing gained momentum, one project involved creating a dynamic multi-page website completely utilizing AWS Lambda, API Gateway, DynamoDB, and S3. The serverless architecture eliminated the need to manage any infrastructure.

IoT smart home prototype: As a prototype smart home system, a student designed and built an IoT network connecting various sensors and actuators around a mock property. An Azure IoT Hub integrated door sensors, motion detectors, light bulbs, and more which could be controlled from a mobile app.

Information security is another popular area for capstone work, such as:

Penetration testing: Students have conducted authorized ethical hacks and security assessments of organizations, documenting vulnerabilities and providing recommendations. This involved using tools like Nmap, Nikto, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and more.

Data encryption application: To address HIPAA compliance, one project developed a desktop encryption utility for securing medical files on endpoint devices. It used the AES encryption standard and secure key storage.

Social engineering prevention: As part of an employee security awareness campaign, a student researched and prototyped various phishing simulation solutions using tailored email templates and tracking engagement. Reports helped identify risk areas.

The examples shared here represent just a sample of the diverse and innovative capstone projects undertaken by IT students. By developing real-world solutions, students gain valuable hands-on experience in domains like application development, systems administration, information security, and emerging technologies to apply toward their careers.