View source for CSC/ECE 517 Summer 2008/wiki2 1 tm

= Rails vs. PHP =

While Ruby is fast growing in popularity, there are still more PHP Web applications communicating with MySQL databases. Compare Rails with support for Web applications in PHP. Which are the advantages of each for the developer? For the finished application?

== Introduction ==

This document seeks to enlighten programmers who are deciding between using PHP or Ruby on Rails for their next web application.  We will take a look at the differences which matter most in determining just which language is right to your project.  Please note that this document does not plan to [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1NVfDlU6yQ blindly promote] one language over another, it seeks to give you the information needed to decided which language is right for your next application.  You may use this information each time you begin a new project and decide on a different language each time.

== Fixed Metrics ==
Fixed metrics will likely affect all projects and programmers making a choice between Ruby on Rails or PHP. 

=== Installation ===
Filler: Compare and contrast the various implementation differences between PHP and Rails; such as how to properly configure a rails server vs php server.  Quickly cover the various hosting companies available that support the two languages.

=== Learning Curve ===
Filler:  Compare and contrast the barriers to entry into either language including both textbooks, classes, and online resources available between the two languages.  What languages you already know often affects what language is best for your new project, especially if deadlines are looming.

=== Applications Available ===
Fillter: Compare and contrast the availability of applications which have already been programmed and are currently available for both languages.  Is what you are developing already available as open source software?  

== Variable Metrics ==
Variable metrics must be considered each time a project is taken on.  These will likely change between each of your projects.  It would be a good idea to evaluate them each time you must choose to use PHP or Ruby on Rails.

[[Image:variable-metrics.png]]

=== Scalability ===
Filler text goes here

=== Development Speed ===
Filler text goes here

=== Development Tools ===
Filler text goes here

=== Maintainability ===
Filler text goes here

= External Links =

* Rails for PHP Developers

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