The software industry changes quickly, and every few years new frameworks appear and become popular. Ruby on Rails (RoR), released in 2004, was once the favorite choice for many startups because it allowed fast development and lower costs. With the rise of Node.js, Django, and other modern frameworks, people often ask: Is Ruby on Rails development dead?
1. Is Ruby on Rails Development Dead?
Ruby on Rails is not as dominant as it was between 2010 and 2015, but it is still widely used. Well-known platforms like GitHub, Shopify, and Basecamp were built with Rails, which shows its lasting power.
One of the main advantages of Rails is the “Convention over Configuration” principle. It helps developers work faster without spending too much time on setup. The Rails ecosystem also includes thousands of gems, which are ready-made packages that add features quickly.
Reports show that thousands of businesses, especially startups and SMEs, continue to use Rails for eCommerce platforms, SaaS products, and community-based applications.
Saying Ruby on Rails is dead is simply not true. The framework is still updated and supported. Rails 7, released in 2021, introduced better performance and stronger security.
In the coming years, Rails may not be the “trendiest” framework, but it will remain a smart choice for companies that need:
- Fast MVP (Minimum Viable Product) development.
- Applications with complex business logic but quick release cycles.
- Scalable systems at a reasonable cost.
2. A Quick Guide to Ruby on Rails Development
Starting a project with Ruby on Rails is straightforward. The basic steps include:
Step 1: Set up the environment
- Install Ruby, Rails, and a database such as PostgreSQL or MySQL.
- Use version managers like RVM or rbenv to avoid conflicts.
Step 2: Create and configure your app
- Rails comes with tools to generate a project in seconds.
- Its clear MVC (Model-View-Controller) structure makes the codebase easy to maintain.
Step 3: Add features and deploy
- Popular gems such as Devise (authentication), Sidekiq (background jobs), and ActiveAdmin (admin dashboards) speed up development.
- Deployment can be done on Heroku, AWS, or DigitalOcean.
Rails works especially well with Agile methods, allowing teams to release features quickly and adapt to user feedback.
3. Choosing a Ruby on Rails Development Partner
Not every company has an in-house Rails team. Partnering with an experienced development company can save time and reduce risks. When choosing a partner, consider these points:
- Experience with Rails: Check their past projects and see if they handled complex applications.
- Technical diversity: A good partner can combine Rails with frontend frameworks like React, Vue, or Angular.
- Security knowledge: Since Rails is often used in finance and eCommerce, the partner must understand security standards.
- Engagement model: Decide whether you need staff augmentation, full outsourcing, or a long-term partnership.
A reliable Ruby on Rails development partner does more than code. They provide strategic advice and help scale the product over time.
If you are looking for a Vietnamese partner, then you can refer to our list of Top Vietnamese Ruby on Rails development companies.
Ruby on Rails is not dead. It has moved into a more mature phase where stability, speed, and a strong community are its true strengths. For startups building MVPs or SMEs looking for scalable systems, Rails is still a powerful choice. The key to success lies in selecting the right Ruby on Rails development partner to turn your ideas into real products.
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