Desktop application development begins with selecting the right platform approach: native (Windows/macOS/Linux), cross-platform frameworks, and the distribution model. A clearly defined MVP and an early prototype help validate workflows, performance requirements, and the overall UX on real machines.

As the product evolves, stability, updates, and packaging take center stage. Thoughtful handling of file systems, permissions, offline mode, and integrations (device APIs, peripherals, enterprise authentication) ensures the app remains reliable in daily use, while an update mechanism and crash analytics streamline long-term support.