Ruby is an interpreted scripting language for quick and easy object-oriented programming such as processing text files or performing system management, using straightforward syntax and transparent semantics. The freely available Ruby is used in text processing, XML and Web applications, GUI building, middle-tier server administration, and general system administration. Advanced functions of Ruby also include applications in artificial intelligence and machine learning research, and as an engine for exploratory mathematics. Using step-by-step examples and real world applications, this guide is designed for programmers and developers looking to embrace the object-oriented features and functionality of this robust programming language. Readers will learn how to develop, implement, organize, and deploy applications using Ruby. The guide aims at the utilization of Ruby in real world applications including the use of databases and XML, the coding of graphical user interfaces (GUI's) by means of different toolkits, communicating with other languages over SOAP/XML-RPC or sockets, and the programming of concurrent and distributed applications. This book also discusses the use of Ruby as an Internet-based client/server and the future of Ruby as an alternate WWW platform.