The GitLab service of the Developer Hub is currently an "alpha" offering. In the alpha phase of a service we:
* build a prototype of the service
* test the prototype with users
* demonstrate that the service is technically possible
We use our experience building prototypes in the alpha to:
* find problems with the design of the service and decide how to solve them
* make some estimates about how much the service will cost
* identify the biggest risks for the beta stage, as early as possible
By the end of alpha we aim to know:
* whether to move the service into the beta phase
* what we need to build in beta if we move into beta
## Is my data safe
In the alpha phase we will still perform appropriate data safety and integrity steps such as snapshots and backups. We do not intend to delete data between the alpha and beta phases.
## How long will the service last
As part of the alpha phase, we need to demonstrate that the service is useful, affordable and provides value to a good number of users. If this cannot be demonstrated we would not proceed to a beta phase.
The requirements for leaving alpha are not time-based. When we have reached the aims listed above we will decide if the service is to be taken forward to beta.
