Ruby on Rails is a powerful web application framework that allows you to build robust and scalable applications quickly and efficiently. As a beginner, starting with Ruby on Rails can be daunting, but with the right guidance, you can master the basics in no time. To begin your journey, ensure that you have Ruby installed on your computer along with the Rails gem. Follow these steps:

1. Install Ruby via a version manager like RVM or rbenv.
2. Run gem install rails to get the latest version of Rails.
3. Create a new Rails application with rails new myapp.

Once your Rails application is set up, it’s crucial to understand the underlying architecture. Ruby on Rails follows the Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern, which helps in organizing your code and separating different concerns. The Model handles data logic, the View manages the user interface, and the Controller serves as the intermediary, processing user input and rendering the appropriate output. Familiarizing yourself with these components will set a strong foundation for your development skills. Remember, practice is key—build simple applications and gradually integrate more complex features as you grow your proficiency.

Developing efficient Ruby on Rails apps requires adherence to several best practices that enhance both performance and maintainability. First and foremost, modularization of your code is essential. By breaking down your application into smaller, reusable components, you can reduce complexity and improve code readability. Additionally, utilize the Rails conventions to keep your project structured and organized, making it easier for developers to navigate and contribute. Implementing caching strategies, such as fragment caching or Russian Doll caching, will also significantly improve your app's response time by minimizing database queries.

Another key practice is to ensure thorough testing of your application using tools like RSpec and Capybara. This not only helps in identifying bugs early but also enhances the overall code quality. Additionally, performance profiling with tools like New Relic or Skylight can help you pinpoint bottlenecks in your application. Lastly, always keep your dependencies updated and minimize the use of gems that are not actively maintained, as this can lead to security vulnerabilities and performance issues in the long run.

Ruby on Rails has become the framework of choice for startups due to its remarkable speed and efficiency in developing applications. This framework allows startups to launch their Minimum Viable Product (MVP) quickly, enabling them to gather user feedback and iterate on their product in real-time. The built-in convention over configuration principle helps streamline the development process, reducing the time spent on boilerplate code and allowing developers to focus on building features that matter. Furthermore, with a vibrant community and an abundance of gems (libraries), developers can easily integrate third-party functionalities and accelerate the development cycle.

Another compelling reason startups favor Ruby on Rails is its emphasis on maintainability and scalability. With its clear and organized coding structure, it becomes easier for teams to collaborate and manage codebases as they grow. Startups often face the challenge of scaling their applications to meet increasing demand, and Rails provides the tools necessary to do just that. According to many industry experts, the combination of rapid development and the ability to adapt as needs change makes Ruby on Rails an optimal choice for new businesses looking to innovate and stay ahead of the competition.