Building a desktop app begins by selecting an appropriate platform approach: native for Windows, macOS, and Linux; cross-platform frameworks; and the chosen distribution strategy. Defining a solid MVP and an early prototype helps confirm workflows, performance requirements, and the overall UX on real hardware.
As the product evolves, stability, updates, and packaging take center stage. Thoughtful management of file systems, permissions, offline capabilities, and integrations (device APIs, peripherals, enterprise authentication) ensures reliable daily use, while an update system and crash reporting streamline ongoing maintenance.