Building a desktop app begins by selecting an appropriate platform approach: native options (Windows/macOS/Linux), cross-platform tools, and how you plan to distribute it. A clearly scoped MVP and an initial prototype assist in confirming workflows, performance requirements, and the overall user experience on actual hardware.

As the product evolves, reliability, updates, and packaging take center stage. Thoughtful management of file systems, permissions, offline functionality, and integrations (device APIs, peripherals, enterprise authentication) ensures the app remains dependable in daily use, while an update system and crash reporting streamline ongoing maintenance.