When do you pull the plug on software projects?

Bill Doerrfeld | May 29, 2026

When 90% of projects fail, you have to get really good at saying no.

Real software leaders know you can't have endless innovation without also knowing when to cancel unviable projects.

For my latest DirectorPlus edition, I sync with Joel Carusone, SVP of data and AI at NinjaOne, about how engineering leaders can build the muscle for making that call.

He offers a ton of sound advice on setting time-based controls, spotting when projects are drifting, and knowing when (and how) to pull the plug.

Interestingly, Tempo Software's State of SPM report indicated those canceling more projects are yielding a higher overall ROI. So maybe killing the right projects is really about sustainability, not failure.

Check it out here on LeadDev. And consider signing up to their DirectorPlus newsletter to get these issues in your email inbox if you prefer!

Read: When to kill a software project

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