Yes.

You get maximum DPS by keeping the target within 2km, and within your cone of fire. If you're father you deal reduced damage, if they're not in your firing arc it reduces your damage. If you're not dealing damage you're not really contributing because you can't do much else.

So long as you can survive and are able to withdraw if you get smacked down, this is how you contribute the most in an STF. I've even known a pilot to hit Ramming Speed and Abandon Ship when he was about to blow up, but I think that's silly.

There's alternatives like the previously mentioned drive by bombings with tricobalts, but in general that's what you do.