When a software project stalls, runs over budget, or loses the confidence of its stakeholders, it does not have to be abandoned. Putti's project rescue service intervenes in failing, stalled, or over-budget projects, stabilising them and delivering them to completion. With a track record of zero failures across 100+ projects delivered since 2010, the Auckland-based team brings the senior engineering depth needed to diagnose problems quickly and chart a realistic path forward.
Why do software projects fail?
Software projects fail in New Zealand for several common reasons:
- Wrong team or insufficient seniority: junior or under-resourced teams struggle with complex requirements
- Unclear requirements: scope that shifts or was never properly defined leads to misaligned builds
- Poor project management: without structure, timelines and budgets erode
- Offshore development quality issues: communication gaps and inconsistent quality create compounding problems
- Technical debt accumulation: shortcuts taken early become expensive blockers later
- Loss of stakeholder confidence: once trust breaks down, projects stall
Many projects also fail simply because the budget runs out mid-way due to poor initial scoping.
How does Putti rescue a failing project?
Putti starts every project rescue with a thorough audit of the existing codebase, documentation, and project history. The team identifies what can be salvaged versus what needs rebuilding, assesses technical debt and security risks, and produces an honest plan with realistic timelines and budget. They then take full ownership of the project through to delivery.
Can a project still be rescued without the original developer?
Yes. Putti regularly rescues projects where the original developer is unresponsive, has left, or the agency has closed. As long as code access exists, Putti can take over. The team is experienced at reverse-engineering undocumented codebases, a common scenario in project rescue engagements.
How much does project rescue cost?
Project rescue cost depends on the state of the existing codebase and how much work remains. Putti provides a free initial assessment, followed by a clear proposal. Because they avoid unnecessary rebuilding wherever possible, project rescues are often more cost-effective than starting from scratch.
Project rescue vs. project handover: what is the difference?
Project rescue refers to taking over a project that is actively failing or in crisis. Project handover is a more planned transition from one development team to another. Putti handles both scenarios and has extensive experience with projects in all states of completion and distress.
If your project is in trouble, learn more about how Putti approaches project rescue or get in touch.