An interpersonal network is a social network which is focused interpersonal, face to face, communication.  Interpersonal networks are usually local and community centered groups, organizations, or a compilation of patrons of a business. 

Like a social network the idea is to provide an easy way to communicate between friends, colleagues and those with common interests.  Unlike a typical social network an interpersonal network usually focus on a narrow set of interests and tries to draw people together into a local, more personal face to face meeting.

An interpersonal network can also be though of as a micro network. 

An interpersonal network is perfect for sports organizations, event based businesses, and businesses that rely on repeat customers.

Why The Emphasis on Face to Face Meeting?

I wish I didn't have to answer this, but there are really two reasons.

First off, some organizations and business are face to face event based- sports teams, party businesses, community organizations, dine in restaurants and dining halls. Beyond that obvious need, we believe there is also a need for some organizations to re-emphasize the need for face to face meetings in business groups, and even within large organizations and individual sales. 

Lets face it, more and more of our communication is in the form of small byte sized easily digestible bits of information.  Today there are many people that over rely on email, SMS, and blogs for almost all of their communication.  The written word is fantastic, but often lacks the nuance that a face to face meeting has.  An over-reliance on these communication methods often leads to miscommunication and a lack of depth.  This is made worse by the large volume of information that we receive from all directions. 

Providing easy ways to funnel information into a smaller focused forum and then providing easy ways for communities to discuss that information further is one way to rejuvenate the old art of interpersonal communication.

Why Participate In A Interpersonal Social Network?

Simply put, to avoid the clutter and establish a stronger relationships with friends, colleagues, customers or associates.  As the larger networks grow so does their complexity.  It becomes more and more difficult to communicate to select groups.  Posting to a wall, a BBS, and sending out emails all have their benefits, but when you want to organize a party, setup a meeting, or send out a notification its best not to get lost in the wide current of social networks, email, or the constant steam of SMS.