While I haven’t participated in the WiPs of Ironheart and Plague Doctor, I’m definitely in favor. Not every writer has the time and energy to spend time in the forums (and that’s completly understandable), but those who do get an open space full of people who have an experience with IF and ChoiceScript, two things newer writers might not be so used with. And the forumites get the chance to test and engage with a new game without the dedication and time that is usually associated with beta-testing.
It’s not going to be for everyone, but, considering Ironheart and the demo of Plague Doctor, I think it brings something good to the table.