How to Rescue a Failed MVP (From the Ashes)

Your MVP isn't working. Users aren't retaining. The code is a mess. The previous agency disappeared. You're staring at something that's neither functional product nor clean slate.

Welcome to MVP rescue territory.

Not every failed MVP should be rescued. Some should be abandoned. Some should be rebuilt from scratch. But many can be salvaged—if you approach the rescue systematically.

First: Diagnose the Failure

MVP failures aren't all the same. Understanding what failed determines whether and how to rescue.

The Three Types of MVP Failure

Technical failure: The product doesn't work reliably. Bugs, crashes, performance problems, security issues. Users can't accomplish their goals even when they try.

Market failure: The product works, but nobody wants it. Low signups, no retention, no willingness to pay.

Execution failure: The product partially works and there's some demand, but something in the middle is broken.

Assessing What's Salvageable

Before deciding on rescue, understand what you're working with.

Technical Assessment

Get an honest evaluation of the codebase: Can it run? Is it maintainable? Is it secure? Is it scalable? Is the architecture sound? The spectrum runs from "needs cleanup" to "needs demolition."

What's Worth Keeping

• User data: Existing users and their data have value
• Domain logic: Business rules and calculations
• Integrations: Connections to third-party services