Chris Robinson · Robinson Consulting

Clear, independent advice for technology and product decisions.

I help small businesses and professional organizations understand their options, weigh the tradeoffs, and choose a practical way forward.

My work includes technology second opinions, technology platform strategy, AI and automation, online learning consulting, manufacturing consulting, and expert-witness support.

Start a conversation Request a second opinion

The first conversation is free. I’ll tell you whether I’m the right fit—and if I’m not, I’ll say so.

Architectural plans and drafting tools arranged on a worktable

Advisory services

Experience for decisions that are hard to undo

Robinson Consulting is the advisory practice I lead directly. These engagements benefit from an outside perspective, broad technical fluency, and a clear understanding of how the decision will affect real work.

Technology second opinions

An independent review of a proposal, quote, vendor recommendation, or architecture before you commit.

Technology platform strategy

Full-stack architecture for servers, hosting, operating systems, containers, virtualization, private collaboration, media, and specialized applications.

AI and automation

Workflow automation, AI agents, internal applications, and reporting systems designed around real work.

Online learning consulting

Learning objectives, instructional design, authoring and media tools, LMS strategy, integrations, content delivery, and meaningful assessment.

Manufacturing consulting

Product and manufacturing guidance for footwear, orthotics, prosthetics, and related wearable products.

Expert-witness services

Expert support for civil matters involving orthotics and prosthetics, beginning with a conflict check.

A practical place to start

Before you sign, get a second opinion.

Vendor proposals can be technically detailed and still leave the most important questions unanswered. I review what is being recommended, what it will cost now and later, what may be missing, and which alternatives deserve consideration.

See how a technology second opinion works

Two people reviewing documents and making notes together

What the review asks

Is the solution sized for the real requirement?
Which recurring costs are essential?
What assumptions or requirements are missing?
How difficult will the service be to change or leave?
Is there a simpler, lower-risk option?

How I work

Personal attention, with the right expertise behind it

I lead strategy, scoping, and quality oversight. When an engagement requires additional expertise or delivery capacity, I work with trusted specialists and collaborators. You retain one clear point of accountability while the project gets the right mix of skills.

Robinson Consulting accepts a limited number of engagements so I can remain personally involved wherever my judgment is part of the value.

Define the real need
Clarify the outcome you need before choosing a product, platform, or approach.
Review the best options
Compare practical choices based on fit, cost, complexity, and long-term value.
Move forward the right way
I’ll recommend the right path forward—and the right team—for your needs.

Specialist brands

Focused teams for focused work

Robinson Consulting is the umbrella for three service brands. Each has a clear purpose and its own client experience.

Websites and SEO

Midwest Web Solutions

Websites, redesigns, search optimization, and ongoing website care for small businesses.

Managed Web Hosting

CR Hosting Technologies

Managed WordPress, Canvas, and specialized application hosting under a defined agreement.

Chicago Area IT Support

Oak Park Technology Solutions

Chicago-area IT, networks, Wi-Fi, workstations, servers, and concierge support plans.

If one of these businesses is relevant to a recommendation, I will disclose the connection, explain the alternatives, and leave the choice with you.

Explore the Robinson Consulting brands

Selected work

Practical systems built around real operations

Online learning platforms

Designed and delivered two LearnDash systems for customer and staff product training.

Production order sequencing

Automated the prioritization and sequencing of orders for an additive-manufacturing operation.

Custom quoting and invoicing

Built quoting and invoicing tools around a company's own pricing and workflow rules.

About Chris

A broad perspective, grounded in real work

My background spans clinical practice, graduate health-science education, digital design and fabrication, data strategy, compliance, and process improvement. That range helps me see where technology meets people, operations, and real-world consequences.

Learn more about Chris

Start with the decision in front of you.

Send a short description of what you are considering. I’ll review it personally and let you know whether a conversation would be useful.

Start a conversation

Not sure which service fits? Compare the advisory services.