Desktop software development begins by selecting an appropriate platform approach: native for Windows/macOS/Linux, cross-platform frameworks, and the way the product is distributed. A clearly defined MVP and an early prototype help verify user workflows, performance needs, and the overall user experience on real devices.

As the product matures, stability, updates, and packaging become essential. Careful management of file systems, permissions, offline capabilities, and integrations (device APIs, peripherals, and enterprise authentication) ensures reliable daily use, while an update system and crash analytics support long-term maintenance.