Case Study
MateBudget Desktop
A desktop-first budgeting experience built with PySide6 — designed for people who want an actual app (not a browser tab). Clean navigation, local storage, and a structure that scales.
Project type
Desktop application
Goal
Native UX + local storage
Core features
Transactions • Categories • Monthly totals
Delivery
Prototype → iterative polish
The problem
Some users prefer a true desktop app: faster access, local data, and no browser dependency. The challenge was to keep the same “clean workflow” feeling as a web app, but deliver it with a native UI and a local database.
The solution
MateBudget Desktop is a PySide6 application with a structured navigation system, predictable screens, and a SQLite database underneath. It’s designed to support future features such as analytics views, multi-account support, and export tools.
Key features
- Desktop navigation with clear “sections” (Dashboard / Transactions / Analytics)
- Local SQLite storage for fast access and offline usage
- Transaction entry designed for speed (minimal friction)
- Monthly overview: totals, savings targets, remaining balance
- Foundation for future features (charts, exports, multi-account)
Architecture & database
Desktop apps can become messy quickly if the UI logic and data logic get mixed. This project uses separation: UI components, services/helpers, and database access layers.
Structure (example)
- ui/ (pages, widgets)
- services/ (business rules)
- db/ (queries, models)
- utils/ (validators, formatters)
Database tables
- transactions
- categories
- monthly_totals
- settings
Outcome
A desktop app foundation that feels modern and structured — with local storage, clear navigation, and a clean architecture that supports future upgrades without rewrites.
Video
Short demo (optional)
Add a short walkthrough video to show the desktop flow (screens + navigation).
Gallery
Screens
A quick look at the UI structure and flow. Add or remove images any time.
Need a desktop tool for your business?
If you want a real application experience with clean structure and reliable data, send a message and I’ll outline the simplest path to deliver.