What is the best type of beam?

Could you please elaborate on what constitutes the best type of beam? Is it the material used, its structural integrity, or perhaps its cost-effectiveness that determines its superiority? Also, how does the intended application of the beam factor into this assessment? For instance, is a steel beam more suitable for heavy-duty construction compared to a wooden one? Furthermore, are there any environmental considerations that should be taken into account when choosing the best beam type? I'm curious to understand the criteria and rationale behind selecting the optimal beam for a given scenario.