diff --git a/README b/README
index e69de29..52c7aaa 100644
--- a/README
+++ b/README
@@ -0,0 +1,10 @@
+The master branch is where development takes place:
+ - it may contain kickstart files that are broken, or
+ - spin concepts that are in the process of being
+   approved by the Board (trademark approval), or
+ - spin concepts that are in the process of being
+   approved by the Spins SIG
+
+The release specific branches contain spin concepts that:
+ - are approved (both by Board and Spin SIG)
+ - maintained for the remainder of the release cycle