The ReThread
Research Lab
A free, selective program where we partner with SMBs to study real workflow challenges and build solutions you keep.
Understanding the real challenges together
Most consulting firms sell you a solution before they understand the problem. We flip that.
You have a real problem
A workflow that's costing you time, money, or sanity. Something held together with duct tape and workarounds.
We get access to study it
You let us look under the hood — the tools, the steps, the pain points. We observe, ask questions, and map the whole picture.
We build you a solution
We research, design, and implement a real fix — automation, integration, or custom tool — and hand it to you. Yours to keep, forever.
What we give. What we ask.
This is a partnership, not a transaction. Here's what each side brings to the table.
- ✓ A complete solution
We research, design, and build a working fix for one core workflow challenge.
- ✓ Full ownership
Code, documentation, implementation plan — it's all yours. No licensing, no strings.
- ✓ Expert strategy insight
We don't just fix the symptom. We'll show you where the real leaks are and what to prioritize next.
- ✓ Clarity & documentation
A clear writeup of what we found, what we built, and how to maintain it.
- → 1–3 working sessions
Walk us through the workflow. Show us the tools, the steps, the frustrations. Usually 45–60 minutes each.
- → Honest, unfiltered feedback
Tell us what's actually broken — not the polished version. The messier the truth, the better the fix.
- → Permission to share learnings
We publish findings to help other SMBs. Your business can be anonymized — we care about the patterns, not the names.
- → Patience & collaboration
We're thorough. This isn't a quick hack — it's a considered solution built the right way.
From application to solution
We keep the process simple and transparent. Here's what happens after you apply.
You apply & tell us what's broken
Fill out a short form describing the workflow challenge you're facing. We review every application — no algorithms, just people reading.
We select & schedule a deep-dive
If it's a fit, we schedule working sessions to walk through your workflow together. Screen shares, questions, and real talk.
We research, design & build
Our team goes to work — mapping the problem, exploring solutions, and building something practical that directly addresses the pain.
You get the solution. We share the insights.
We hand you the finished solution with full documentation. We publish our learnings (anonymized if you prefer) so the broader SMB community benefits.
This program is selective — by design
We take on a small number of businesses at a time so we can do the work right. Here's who thrives in this program.
Great fit
- You run a small or mid-size business (2–200 employees)
- You have a specific workflow that's clearly costing you
- You're willing to open up and show us how things really work
- You want a solution you own — not another subscription
- You're comfortable with us sharing (anonymized) learnings
Not the right fit
- You need something built yesterday — our process takes time
- You want ongoing managed services or maintenance
- You're looking for an "AI strategy deck" or buzzword bingo
- You can't commit 2–3 hours over a few weeks for sessions
- You're not comfortable with us publishing findings
Common questions
Is this really free?
Yes. There's no cost, no hidden fees, no upsell. The program exists because studying real workflows makes us better at what we do. You get a solution; we get knowledge. That's the trade.
How many businesses do you accept?
A handful at a time. We intentionally keep it small so we can dedicate serious attention to each project. We'd rather do 3 projects well than 20 projects poorly.
What kind of workflows do you focus on?
Anything that's costing you time or money: invoicing, scheduling, data entry, tool sprawl, reporting, inventory management. If it's repetitive and painful, it's probably a fit.
Will you share our business data?
Never. We share patterns and learnings — not your data. And we can fully anonymize your business if you prefer. The point is to help other SMBs facing similar challenges.
How is this different from your consulting services?
Our consulting work is a paid engagement where you hire us for a specific project. The Research Lab is a free program where we choose projects that help us learn and build better. Both result in solutions you own.
How long does the process take?
Typically 4–8 weeks from acceptance to delivery, depending on the complexity. We'll give you a timeline during the selection process.
Ready to open the door?
Tell us about the workflow that's driving you crazy. If it's a fit, we'll reach out to schedule the first conversation.
Apply to the Research LabWe review every application personally. You'll hear back within a week.