Find Codex in the current desktop interface
The official desktop documentation describes a shared work interface with ChatGPT and Codex choices. For software work, select Codex and open the intended project folder. A file project and a Git repository are different starting points. Check the actual working location and version control before making changes.
Choose a small project with a known starting state
An initial trial needs only a bounded issue and a reproducible test. Record the starting state and supply expected behaviour, test commands and constraints. An isolated branch or worktree makes review easier when the project uses Git. Production credentials are normally unnecessary for this setup test.
Review permissions and output together
Before the task, review effective file, command and network permissions. Afterwards, inspect the diff, relevant tests and application behaviour. Assess additional apps or MCP tools individually. Sign-in proves access; the reviewed task proves whether this setup is useful for your team.
Decision matrix
| Decision point | Proceed when | Stop when |
|---|---|---|
| Working environment | Documented: sign-in, workspace, repository rules, sandbox, tests and review. | Scope, data or accountability remains unresolved. |
| Isolated functional test | Reviewable setup evidence includes the selected repository, effective boundaries, the diff for a small task and relevant test results. Review confirms that unrelated files were not changed. | There is only an unevaluated demo without acceptance evidence. |
| Operational readiness | Owner, approval, fallback and next review date are defined. | Avoid: production secrets in the repository or unrestricted write access. Production secrets or unrestricted write access in the first workspace prevent a sufficiently isolated setup trial. |
Keep it verifiable
Primary sources
- OpenAI: ChatGPT desktop appSource checked:
- OpenAI: Agent approvals and securitySource checked:
