service-manual 1 linked patterns checked
GOV.UK Service Manual alpha phase guidance
Explains that alpha tests riskiest assumptions with prototypes, should not be available for public use, is not production-quality code, and helps decide whether to move to beta.
Read with a purpose
What this source can teach
Use this source to study a complete public-service task and the guidance that supports its implementation.
- Start with the original. Open the source and find the guidance or example relevant to your task.
- Trace the connection. Use the claim notes below to see how this site applies the source to specific patterns.
- Check the setting. Compare the source's platform, people, and constraints with your own decision.
Pattern Decisions This Source Supports
| Pattern | Supported decision | Required contract | Claim note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phase / beta banner | Choose phase / beta banner when the whole service is in alpha, private beta, or public beta and users need a service-wide maturity signal. | The phase banner appears consistently across all pages in the service while the phase applies. | GOV.UK Service Manual explains alpha as limited prototype testing of risky assumptions and says alpha services should not be available for public production use. |
Comparisons supported by this source
- Phase / beta banner vs banner vs notification banner vs site alert
GOV.UK Service Manual explains that alpha tests risky assumptions with prototypes and should not be publicly available as a production service.
Evidence Role
This source is treated as service-manual evidence. Its value comes from the specific claims and setting described above.
Publisher: GOV.UK Service Manual. Last checked: .