Software Rescue

Fix broken, unfinished, abandoned, or hard-to-maintain software without a full rebuild.

When the software sort of works, until it doesn’t

Releases have become scary. Nobody wants to touch the codebase. A previous developer left, or the whole thing was built fast for a demo that never got properly finished. The business now depends on software that could fall over at any time.

I’ve spent over a decade in codebases exactly like this — large systems at real scale, stabilizing the parts other people were afraid to touch. That’s the work here, brought down to the scale of your business.

What’s involved

Diagnose what is actually broken versus what only feels broken
Stabilize the highest-risk areas first, before anything else
Repair integrations, data flows, and deployment pipelines
Leave the code in a state your team can own again

What you’ll need from your side

Access to the codebase, hosting, and the accounts the software touches
A short conversation about what breaks, how often, and what it costs you
One person who can answer questions about how the business uses it

What you get

A clear picture of the highest-risk problems and what to fix first
A stabilized system with fewer production incidents and manual workarounds
Honest guidance on what to fix, what to leave alone, and what a rebuild would really cost

Rescue work is scoped after a paid Business Systems Audit (CA$1,500), so the plan and price are clear before any repair starts.

Where to start

If you already know the software is the problem, a Business Systems Audit turns the mess into a prioritized, written fix plan. If you’re not sure yet, start with a free Business Systems Review — a short conversation to figure out whether a rescue is the right move at all.

Frequently asked questions

How do you know if software should be fixed or rebuilt?

During an audit I assess whether the core business logic is sound, how much operational data is tied to the current system, and whether a rebuild would take longer than stabilizing the highest-risk areas first.

Do you build from scratch or fix existing software?

Both, but I usually start by fixing and stabilizing what you already have. A full rebuild is only recommended when the existing system genuinely cannot support the business.

Can you work with our current tools?

Yes. Most engagements connect tools you already use — Shopify, Etsy, CRMs, spreadsheets, Airtable, Zapier, Make, accounting software, shipping tools, and custom APIs.

Can you work with our agency on client projects?

Yes. Agencies use me as a white-label or named technical partner for backend systems, integrations, automation, and infrastructure their team does not build in-house.

Do you build websites?

Yes — for companies of any size. That includes new sites, redesigns, ecommerce storefronts, and sites connected to CRMs, booking tools, and internal systems. I also fix broken or outdated websites when a rebuild is not the right first step.

Do you work hourly or fixed-price?

Audits and fix sprints are usually fixed-price after a short scoping conversation. Ongoing support is monthly. Hourly is available for small advisory work when it makes sense.

Can you help with AI tools and automations?

Yes — especially when an AI tool worked in a demo but fails in real use. I focus on making workflows reliable, auditable, and maintainable.

Can you support the system after launch?

Yes. Ongoing Website & Systems Support covers fixes, updates, small improvements, and adapting to vendor or API changes as your business evolves.

Do you work with local businesses and remotely?

Both. Based in Durham Region, Ontario. Most work is remote with clear documentation. On-site discovery is available when it helps.

What does a free website review include?

A practical look at your mobile experience, local search basics, contact forms, tracking, and obvious places where inquiries get lost — with clear next steps. Free for local businesses in Durham Region.

Do you only do websites, or software too?

Both. Many local clients start with a website or contact-flow fix. Growing teams and agencies often need software rescue, automation, and integrations — same partner, different entry point.

Who is Blachn.io Software Services for?

Businesses that want one developer for their website, software, automation, and support — instead of hiring a full engineering team or juggling multiple freelancers.