My characterization would be that OWS has a steeper learning curve than RAD. You can do both simple and complex modules using both products.
As for the file question, you can simply link to the file using the Editor in most modules. You will get a link that uses the LinkClick function. If the file is in the Standard file system, you can refer to it by name so your link should be something like
http://mysite.com/Portals/N/myfilename.pdf. (Assuming you are using Portal N)