Isn't that pretty much the same as a private repo? I don't think that would be very useful. I think the public or private options are fine. If something isn't ready I doubt anyone would want to follow. Projects that aren't ready have a high probability of never being ready. Plus it goes against the "social coding" part of github. I think the way they do gives you more incentive to finish something once it's public. As for private repos, well I assume if you're paying money for it then you're not fucking around plus I'm sure once the money rolls in GiHub doesn't care if you're social about your coding or now. I mean, it's a great site but it's still a business.