Screaming in the Cloud From Code to Cash: How André Arko Builds Better Tools and Gets Paid for Open Source
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Nov 13, 2025 André Arko, CEO of Spinel Cooperative and longtime Bundler maintainer, discusses RV, a groundbreaking Ruby tool that installs Ruby in one second using precompiled binaries. He dives into the challenges of Ruby dependency management, contrasting RV with legacy tools like RVM and rbenv. André addresses misconceptions about Ruby's relevance, critiques Apple's outdated Ruby shipping in macOS, and shares his journey from nonprofit struggles to building a sustainable cooperative model that charges companies for expertise in open source.
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Bundler Battles With Version Managers
- André recalls being Bundler maintainer during the RVM vs rbenv wars and how version managers often broke Bundler.
- He personally used chruby and shell tricks to avoid those conflicts for a decade.
Ship Fast, Then Expand Incrementally
- Use precompiled binaries for Ruby to make installs nearly instantaneous.
- Offer fast, targeted improvements first and expand features incrementally over time.
System Ruby Is Obsolete On macOS
- Apple ships an ancient, end-of-life system Ruby which encourages developers to avoid system Ruby.
- That makes a fast replacement installer more valuable for developers on macOS.