Building a desktop app begins with selecting a suitable platform approach: native for Windows/macOS/Linux, cross-platform frameworks, and the chosen distribution method. Crafting a clear MVP and an early prototype helps confirm workflows, performance requirements, and the overall user experience on actual devices.

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