Another developer may be able to continue an unfinished app, but the first step is understanding what exists. A working-looking screen does not show whether the underlying system, integrations and deployment process are complete.
Establish access and evidence
Gather the source code, repository history, designs, documentation and the agreed requirements. Identify access to hosting, databases, developer accounts and external services. Keep credentials secure and arrange appropriate access rather than sharing them in public documents. The review should distinguish working features from demonstrations and unfinished work. A new developer needs to check whether they can build and run the system, understand its structure and reproduce the reported problems.
What a recovery plan should explain
- What can be retained and what needs further investigation.
- Which essential features are missing or unreliable.
- Dependencies and access that could block progress.
- A realistic first milestone and how it will be checked.
- The assumptions behind the estimate.
Sometimes continuing the existing work is sensible. In other cases, replacing a limited component may be more practical. A complete rebuild should follow evidence about the system, rather than being the automatic starting point.
Questions and answers
Can you estimate completion from screenshots?
Screenshots help explain the intended interface, but they do not reveal code quality or backend readiness. A technical review is needed for a reliable scope.
What if the original developer is unavailable?
Identify the accounts and materials your business can access. Missing code or service ownership can materially affect the recovery options.
Will all previous work be kept?
That depends on its condition and suitability. Ask the new developer to explain the reasoning for retaining or replacing important parts.
How do we avoid another stalled project?
Agree small reviewable milestones, access responsibilities and acceptance examples. Keep demonstrations tied to working end-to-end tasks rather than individual screens alone.
Talk to Digital Solutions
Explore our custom software development services and previous projects. Tell us what you need to improve and we can help define a practical next step.