SaaS applications and Web-based platforms have changed the way companies function. With the rise of technology and digitalization, businesses are now heavily reliant on software solutions to streamline their operations and increase efficiency.
Ruby on Rails (RoR) is one such popular framework used for web development, known for its ease of use, versatility, and robustness. Many well-known companies such as Airbnb, Slideshare, Github, and Scribd have utilized RoR to develop their platforms.
However, not all organizations have the resources and expertise to build their applications from scratch. So, they seek help from Ruby on Rails developers to augment their existing team and boost the development process.
Here's an in-depth look at how RoR developers can help your project and why you might need to augment your team with them.
What is Ruby on Rails Software Development?
Ruby on Rails, or simply Rails, is an open-source web application framework written in the Ruby programming language. It follows the Model-View-Controller (MVC) architectural pattern and provides developers with a structured approach to building web applications.
The OOP (Object-Oriented Programming) principles of Ruby make it easier to write clean, readable, and maintainable code. Additionally, Rails offers a vast library of pre-written code, known as "gems" to speed up development and reduce coding time.
In short, Ruby on Rails is an efficient and agile framework that allows developers to build robust web applications in a short period. Java developers, in contrast, prefer RoR due to its simplicity. Developers find Ruby on Rails especially useful when building Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) and rapidly deploying software solutions.
When Might you Need to Augment your development Team with ROR Developers?
As mentioned earlier, not all companies have the resources and expertise to develop software solutions on their own. A study by the Korn Ferry Institute predicts that this talent shortage could result in $8.5 trillion in unrealized revenue by the year 2030. As a result, many companies opt for staff augmentation to fill in the skill gaps and speed up their development process.
Here are some specific use cases where you might need to augment your team with RoR developers.
E-commerce platforms
E-commerce platforms are the backbone of modern-day retail. They help businesses sell their products and services online, reaching a broader customer base. Building an e-commerce platform from scratch requires robust backend systems to manage inventory, process orders, and handle payments.
Ruby on Rails is an ideal framework for building an e-commerce platform due to its scalability, security, and ability to handle large datasets. Many well-known e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and Etsy have been built using RoR.
To build such platforms, you need an experienced programmer to handle the complexity of e-commerce applications. You can augment your team with RoR programmers to speed up the development process and ensure a smooth launch of your e-commerce platform.
FinTech applications
Another industry that heavily relies on software solutions is Finance. FinTech applications have revolutionized the way we manage our finances, from digital banking and mobile payments to investment platforms. Security is a top priority in such applications, as they deal with sensitive financial data daily.
Ruby on Rails offers robust security features such as cross-site scripting (XSS) protection and SQL injection prevention. Moreover, its ability to handle large datasets and process complex calculations makes it an ideal framework for building FinTech applications.
The more complex the application, the more experienced developers it requires. By hiring Ruby on Rails developers, you can ensure that your FinTech application is developed efficiently and securely.
Content management systems (CMS)
Content management systems are a popular choice for businesses that manage a lot of content on their websites. CMSs allow users to create, manage, and publish digital content without needing any technical knowledge. Popular examples include WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla.
Ruby on Rails provides developers with the necessary tools to build scalable, flexible, and user-friendly CMSs. Using RoR also makes it easier to integrate plugins and extensions into your CMS. To build a custom CMS for your business, you might need to augment your team with RoR developers.
API development
APIs or Application Programming Interfaces are used by applications to communicate with each other, allowing for seamless data exchange. Companies often need to develop custom APIs for their applications.
Ruby on Rails offers a robust API development framework, Grape, that allows developers to build REST-like APIs quickly. Additionally, RoR's OOP principles make it easier to write well-structured code and maintain the APIs' functionality over time.
Staff augmentation for API development is a popular choice for companies looking to build custom APIs without investing heavily in their development team. By augmenting team extension with RoR developers, businesses can ensure efficient and timely delivery of APIs for their applications.
Startups and MVP development
For startups, time is of the essence. They need to quickly build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to attract investors and gain traction in the market. Ruby on Rails' agility makes it the ideal framework for MVP development as it allows developers to rapidly prototype and deploy software solutions.
By augmenting your team with Ruby developers, you can ensure that your MVP is built efficiently and meets all the requirements. Once you have a solid foundation in place, you can then scale up your development team accordingly. In-house developers can then take over the project, with the assistance of augmented RoR developers if needed.
Educational platforms
Global online learning platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, and Codeacademy have gained immense popularity in recent years. E-learning is projected to grow into a $491.35 billion industry by 2028, with the increasing demand for remote learning solutions. Building such platforms requires experienced developers who can handle complex features and ensure a seamless user experience.
Ruby on Rail's scalability, flexibility, and ability to handle large datasets make it an ideal framework for building educational platforms. Augmenting your team with dedicated Ruby on rails programmers can significantly speed up the development process of your e-learning platform, allowing you to tap into this growing industry.
Customer relationship management (CRM) systems
CRM systems are used by businesses to manage their interactions with current and potential customers. These systems require complex data management, integrations with other software solutions, and user-friendly interfaces.
Ruby on Rails provides developers with the necessary tools to build robust CRM systems that meet these requirements.
Moreover, RoR's ability to integrate with other software solutions makes it easier to incorporate features such as email marketing and analytics into your CRM. By augmenting your team with RoR developers, you can ensure that your CRM system is built efficiently and tailored to fit your business needs.
Boosting Project Efficiency with RoR Staff Augmentation
A common thread among these industries is the need for highly skilled developers to build complex software solutions.
Staff augmentation with RoR developers can significantly boost project efficiency, allowing businesses to focus on their core competencies while leaving the technical aspects to experienced professionals. Ruby on Rails development teams can also assist in maintaining and updating existing software solutions, providing long-term support for businesses.
As technology continues to advance, the demand for skilled RoR developers will only increase. Incorporating staff augmentation with experienced RoR developers into your business strategy can give you a competitive edge.
With the right team in place, you can ensure timely and efficient delivery of high-quality software solutions for your business needs.
Ruby on Rails Staff Augmentation Case Studies
Here are some examples of businesses that have successfully used staff augmentation with RoR developers.
Case Study 1: Custom box office system for a film ceremony
Backlit, an entertainment management company, was facing a tight deadline for an important international film award ceremony. They needed to complete the development of their custom box office system and have someone monitor it during the event to ensure smooth operation.
They turned to us as a software development company specializing in RoR for staff augmentation.
Paweł Dąbrowski, CTO of iRonin.IT, joined the team and helped design and implement the missing functionalities in the application. During the event, they monitored the system and promptly fixed any errors that arose.
The project faced a very tight timeline, changing requirements, and a product owner along with the rest of the developers in a different time zone (8-hour difference). Key implementations included a system generating QR codes for tickets, designed to function even if all servers stopped working, and a QR code scanning system with role-based access. Integration with an external system providing guest data and seating arrangements was initially manual but was automated just hours before the event, streamlining the process significantly.
The project involved intense crunch time, with work extending into weekends and holidays to make significant progress before the event. During the event itself, continuous monitoring and real-time error resolution were crucial. Immediate responses to client inquiries and swift bug fixes ensured smooth operation.
The responsiveness, autonomy, proactiveness, stress management, and dedication of iRonin.IT was instrumental in meeting the project's demands. As the CEO of Backlit said: "We were impressed with their responsiveness and quick completion of open requests."
As a result, the client was able to deliver the application on time and run their event without any technical issues. The RoR staff augmentation helped them save time and meet their deadline, ensuring a successful event.
Case Study 2: Enhancing user experience for an educational portal
Edumaster, a publishing company, needed an interactive and multimedia-rich digital solution for their education portal. They were struggling to meet the demands of their clients and decided to use staff augmentation with a RoR development team.
The augmented team provided the client with fresh perspectives and suggestions, allowing them to create a more user-friendly product. The RoR developers also helped with the implementation of new functionalities and improved the overall performance of the portal. As a result, Edumaster was able to meet their client's expectations and provide a better learning experience for students.
Finding the Right Ruby on Rails Talent
Ruby on Rails staff augmentation can bring immense value to your business. The success of your project depends on finding the right team with the necessary skills and experience. Here are some factors to consider when looking for RoR developers for staff augmentation:
1. Look for developers with experience in building complex software solutions using Ruby on Rails. They should also be familiar with related technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and AJAX.
2. Consider hiring developers with experience in your specific industry. They will have a better understanding of your business needs and can offer valuable insights.
3. Working with an augmented team requires effective communication. Look for developers fluent in the language you prefer and can effectively communicate with your team.
4. Projects can change and evolve throughout development. Choose developers who are adaptable and can easily adjust to new requirements.
5. Staff augmentation teams work closely with your in-house team. Look for developers who are reliable, trustworthy, and can work well within a team.
iRonin.IT has a pool of experienced RoR developers who can help you with your software development needs. Our staff augmentation services provide you with a dedicated team that works closely with your in-house team to deliver high-quality work.
