Absolutely, but in the end it all depends what problem you are trying to solve, and which stage you are on. If you are starting a new startup, with Python or R

Absolutely, but in the end it all depends what problem you are trying to solve, and which stage you are on. If you are starting a new startup, with Python or Ruby or PHP you may be able to try 2-3x ideas in the same time. Which means 2-3x more chances of succeeding. If you are adding a new service to an existing businesses, it may worth the time investing in some middle-ground. If you are google or facebook, I guess rewriting everything makes sense from financial point of view.