Why I, a Project Manager, Secretly Love Ruby on Rails (And You Should Too!)

Chris Salas March 14, 2024

The “I-Don’t-Code” Code Love Affair

I have a confession: As a Project Manager, I just love working on Ruby on Rails projects. I am not a developer myself and thus I do not write code (the closest I’ve ever come to “programming” anything was automating my coffee machine which, I must admit, still puzzles me!). But let me elaborate on why I feel that Ruby on Rails is like having that superhero team that any project manager would love. Instant Superheroes: Experience Meets Rails

Imagine giving a high-tech, state-of-the-art suit to a group of seasoned superheroes. That’s what happens when our experienced developers here at reinteractive get their hands on any Ruby on Rails. They’re already fantastic at what they do, but with Rails, they’re like well-oiled machines, operating at peak efficiency. Rails doesn’t just make coding easier; it elevates the skills of those who already know their craft. It’s like watching a master chef given the best kitchen in the world – suddenly, they’re not just cooking, they’re creating culinary masterpieces with ease and flair.

Convention Over Configuration: The Holy Grail of PM Life

Here’s a not-so-secret secret: Project Managers love efficiency. And Ruby on Rails is like the Olympic gold medalist in the efficiency games. With its “Convention over Configuration” mantra, it’s like Rails has read every developer’s mind and set everything up just right. Less time spent configuring means more time doing the actual work, and that’s music to any PM’s ears.

The Magic of ‘Gems’: A Treasure Trove for the Non-Coder

I don’t write code, but I know a good thing when I see it. In Ruby on Rails, there’s something called ‘gems.’ No, not the sparkly stones – these are pre-written code packages that do just about anything you could dream of. It’s like walking into a magic shop where every potion is ready to solve your problems. Less reinventing the wheel, more riding into the sunset of project completion. Building Blocks for Adults: The MVC Architecture

Rails uses something called MVC – Model, View, Controller. Think of it as the ultimate set of building blocks, but for adults. It keeps everything neat, organised, and where it should be. And for someone who juggles timelines like circus acts, a well-structured environment is a slice of heaven.

Testing: The Safety Net We Didn’t Know We Needed

In Rails, testing is built into the fabric of development. It’s like having a safety net while walking a tightrope over Niagara Falls. Knowing that the code is tested thoroughly means fewer surprises. And the only surprises I like are the ones that involve cake.

The Bottom Line: Why This PM is Team Rails

Ruby on Rails is like that reliable, efficient, and slightly magical team member who makes life a whole lot easier. It’s developer-friendly, project manager-approved, and has the unique ability to turn coding into a smooth, streamlined process.

So, while I may not know the difference between a for-loop and a Ferris wheel, I do know that Ruby on Rails makes our projects run like well-oiled machines. And in the project management world, that’s as close to real magic as you get!

In Conclusion: All Aboard the Rails Express!

To all my fellow non-coders, Project Managers, and anyone who values sanity in their projects: let’s raise a cup of (semi-automated) coffee to Ruby on Rails. It’s not just a framework; it’s a superhero in disguise.


# The Project Manager's "Automated" Coffee Machine

def make_coffee
  puts "Initiating coffee... Wait, which button was it again?"
  sleep(2) # Simulating the machine 'thinking'
  
  if rand < 0.5
    puts "Success! Enjoy your coffee!"
  else
    puts "Error: Brewed a cappuccino instead of espresso. Close enough?"
  end
end

# Attempting to make coffee
make_coffee