GitLab

GitLab is an open-source DevOps platform that provides tools for managing the entire software development lifecycle. Founded in 2011, GitLab offers a Git-based repository management system along with integrated features for continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), project management, security scanning, and more. The platform allows developers to collaborate on code, track issues, and deploy applications from a single interface. GitLab's core product is a web-based Git repository manager that includes features like issue tracking, analytics, and a wiki. With each commit or push, GitLab enables developers to trigger builds, run automated tests, and deploy code.

GitLab differentiates itself by offering a complete DevOps solution out-of-the-box, with built-in CI/CD capabilities, whereas competitors often require third-party integrations for similar functionality. The platform supports multiple stable branches beyond the master branch, advocating for a workflow that emphasizes reliability over speed. GitLab provides tools for the entire DevOps lifecycle, from planning to monitoring, allowing teams to manage all stages of software development within a single application. As of October 2022, GitLab reported quarterly revenue of USD 113 million with 69% year-over-year growth.

Key customers and partnerships

GitLab has gained traction among enterprise customers, with notable users including Goldman Sachs, T-Mobile, and Lockheed Martin. The platform is particularly popular in China, where a 2021 JetBrains survey found that 57% of respondents used GitLab for artifact/repository management, compared to 35% for GitHub. In March 2021, GitLab created a local Chinese company called JiHu to expand its presence in the country. GitLab has also formed partnerships to enhance its offerings, including integrations with platforms like Asana, Jira, Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Gmail. The company's focus on open-source has led to partnerships within that community, offering free enterprise plan features and up to 50,000 CI minutes for organizations or smaller teams working on open-source software.