Developing a desktop app begins by selecting an appropriate platform approach: native options (Windows/macOS/Linux), cross-platform tools, and the way it's distributed. A clearly defined MVP and an initial prototype assist in validating workflows, performance requirements, and the overall user experience on real 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 a update system and crash analytics ease ongoing maintenance.