The most frequent question about Ruby on Rails is without a doubt: "Is it really a silver bullet for any kind of web development?" The answer is most definitely no.
Before getting to the scenarios where Ruby on Rails is less suitable, let's first review when using it makes the most sense:
- Creating data-driven web applications quickly and affordably.
- When you are unsure about the functionality you need. Ruby on Rails has a very quick turn-around time, so you can constantly see your application / website in action during development and make changes as your needs become clearer.
- Creating websites with greater interactivity than most.
- Converting an old Microsoft Access application to modernise it and enable use by more than one person at a time.
Reasons not to use Ruby on Rails include:
- When all you want is a Content Management System (CMS). Ruby on Rails currently doesn't have many advanced CMS applications, but it is catching up. You would be better off using a freely available PHP, Java or .NET CMS, unless your needs are very specialised.
- You need an internally hosted web application, but don't want to touch Linux. Even though Ruby on Rails does run on Windows servers, it is much better supported on Linux.
- As with all web applications, it doesn't make sense to have it web-based if offline use is critical. However, Ruby on Rails does make it easier to create an application that can function offline and synchronise changes with the server, should that need ever arise.
Is Ruby on Rails right for your company? Orange Thunder has enough experience in various technologies to assist you in making the right decision.
