Since this is the first phase of the project it will be kept very simple. The goal here is not to create the ultimate GNU/Linux system on the first try. Instead, we will be building a very minimal, working system to be used as a building block in subsequent phases of the project. Keeping this in mind, we can list a few goals for phase one.
Keep it simple to avoid stressing out.
Build something that works for instant gratification.
Make something that it is useful in later phases of the project.