Business Details
24 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Ruby on Rails Development & Maintenance Services
Planet Argon helps teams maximize the potential of their existing software through strategic Ruby on Rails consulting and development services. Founded in Portland in 2002, our core team remains based there while working with a distributed network of engineers across North America, South America, and Europe. We specialize in supporting product teams through every phase of software delivery, from emergency fixes and planning to cleanups and long-term improvements. Our small, nimble team prioritizes technical excellence and a people-first approach, focusing on reducing risk, accelerating progress, and resolving lingering technical debt.With over two decades of experience, we deliver proactive maintenance, code modernization, and collaborative partnerships that leave client teams more confident and capable. Our Agile methodology emphasizes steady progress and real outcomes, ensuring software is delivered with care while maintaining a transparent, client-focused posture.
Services
Ruby on Rails consulting
Application upgrades
Maintenance retainer
Fractional development
Code audits
Emergency support
Technical recruiting
Accessibility audits
Usability testing
DevOps integration
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of Ruby on Rails expertise with a distributed team across North America
- Our proactive maintenance approach prevents security vulnerabilities and performance bottlenecks
- We implement Agile methodologies with JIRA and Slack for transparent collaboration
- Our team provides 24/7 emergency support for critical application issues
- We guarantee client satisfaction with a 30-day money-back assurance
Associations and certifications
- Rails Foundation
What people say
Smooth transition
Responsive and timely
Problem-solving abilities
Creative solutions
Technical expertise
Services
Ruby on Rails Consulting
Our Ruby on Rails consulting helps organizations modernize and future-proof their applications through strategic guidance. With over 20 years of experience, we provide expert analysis of codebases, third-party integrations, and security vulnerabilities. Our consultants develop customized roadmaps for scalability and maintainability while aligning technical solutions with business objectives. Clients benefit from our deep industry knowledge and proactive approach to software sustainability.
Application Upgrades
We specialize in complex Ruby on Rails upgrades with minimal business disruption. Our engineers conduct comprehensive codebase assessments, identify compatibility issues, and implement structured migration plans. The service includes guidance for development teams and strategies for incorporating upgrades into ongoing workflows. Clients receive detailed documentation and training to ensure long-term code maintainability and security compliance.
Maintenance Retainer
Our monthly maintenance retainer provides continuous application support with emergency assistance and proactive monitoring. The service includes security patching, error resolution, and performance optimization while implementing continuous integration testing. Clients receive 24/7 emergency coverage and customized service packages that adapt to evolving business needs through regular roadmap updates and budget tracking.
Fractional Development
This flexible engagement model provides access to experienced Ruby on Rails developers without full-time commitments. Our team handles feature development, bug fixes, and performance improvements while adapting to client-specific tech stacks. The service includes scalable resource allocation and knowledge transfer sessions to enhance internal team capabilities through collaborative problem-solving and code reviews.
Technical Recruiting
We connect organizations with pre-vetted Ruby on Rails engineers through our extensive professional network. The service includes candidate screening, onboarding support, and 120-day placement guarantees. Our focus on long-term software maintenance specialists ensures clients find developers who align with their technical requirements and company culture through personalized matching processes.
People
Robby Russell
CEO, Partner
Founder of Planet Argon with 20+ years of Ruby on Rails expertise. Hosts the Maintainable Software Podcast and co-founded the Rails Foundation. Leads strategic technical consulting while maintaining active development involvement.
Gary Blessington
COO, Partner
Oversees operational strategy and client relationships with extensive experience in software delivery management. Focuses on ensuring project timelines and resource allocation while maintaining technical excellence standards.
Joe Critchley
Lead Full Stack Engineer
Specializes in Ruby on Rails architecture and complex system integrations. Provides technical leadership for client projects while mentoring junior developers in best coding practices and maintainability standards.
Evaldo Klock
Senior Software Developer
Experienced in full-stack development with focus on Rails application optimization. Contributes to code audits and implements scalable solutions for enterprise clients across multiple industries.
Autumn Morgan
Marketing Coordinator
Manages marketing strategy and client communications. Coordinates content creation and brand initiatives while supporting recruitment efforts for technical talent acquisition.
Questions
Where are Planet Argon's team members located?
Our core team and nearshore engineers work remotely across North American time zones.
What type of work do you focus on?
We specialize in overdue Ruby on Rails upgrades, feature development, optimization, and long-term maintenance.
What industries do your clients work in?
Most clients operate in Publishing, Education, Finance, Real Estate, and e-commerce sectors.
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Yes, we provide a 30-day money-back guarantee for new client engagements.
How do you track and communicate project progress?
We use JIRA for task tracking and provide weekly budget dashboards with time entries synchronized from Harvest.
