Get a stalled software project moving again.
I review incomplete, abandoned, and unreliable applications to establish what works, what can be recovered, and what it will take to finish. This includes PHP projects left behind by another developer.
Discuss your stalled projectSituations I can help assess
- The original developer is no longer available.
- A project has missed repeated deadlines.
- The demo works, but normal use exposes failures.
- Every fix appears to break something else.
- You have source code but no reliable deployment instructions.
First, establish what you actually have
I review the repository, database, hosting, dependencies, open issues, and deployment steps. I compare the implementation with the work users need to complete and identify missing access or ownership.
The review separates working features from unfinished or unreliable ones. That gives us a basis for discussing scope rather than repeating an earlier estimate.
Choose a recovery path
Sometimes the fastest route is stabilizing the current application and finishing a smaller release. Sometimes a troublesome component needs replacement. If the whole foundation is unsuitable, I explain why before proposing a rebuild.
For an older system that works but needs substantial updates, see legacy application modernization.
A client’s experience
“I am embarrassed to say that I didn't pick Mark first. I picked someone who I thought would save me $150. Needless to say, I wasted months hoping the cheap guy would get it done. Mark got the project done in 3 days. Before you pick a programmer, ask yourself how much the delays are going to cost your business.”
Software project rescue client. This describes one engagement, not a turnaround promise for other projects.
Do you need the previous developer to participate?
It helps, but access to the code, hosting, database, and third-party services is more important. Tell me what you have and what is missing; we can identify the access needed for a review.
Can you finish the work after reviewing it?
Yes, where the project fits my experience and availability. I can also support an existing team or help you evaluate the options. See PHP development services and the engagement process.