Start with product evidence
Usage, churn, user feedback and sales conversations show whether the MVP is proving the right thing. If the product is not solving a valuable problem, technical polish will not fix it.
The audit should separate weak evidence from weak execution.
Then test the build
Review architecture, data model, deployment, security, maintainability, AI-generated code and supplier dependency. The question is whether the current product can support the next stage or whether it has become a prototype that needs a new foundation.
Use a readiness review to turn MVP uncertainty into a repair or rebuild plan.