The recent explosion of social networking activity on the internet demonstrates the almost universal need to be more connected and share experiences across borders. There are now more opportunities than ever to find neighbours with similar interests, and more tools to create, share, collaborate and remix.

Creative businesses have been making increasing use of social networks such as Facebook, Last.fm and Myspace as tools for promotion, connecting with their contemporaries and reaching wider audiences. Yet if you're using the internet to seek professional creative services in your area, you'd have a pretty hard time.

Inspired by the wealth of talent in our local area , and amazed at how little communication and knowledge sharing was actually going on, Raw Nerve established RSVP London in 2005

We mapped out the creative community in the surrounding area, and established a series of regular events to bring creative people together in a relaxed setting with music and food. This activity was complemented by an online directory, which meant everyone could stay in touch.

In essence, RSVP London is social networking with an added business purpose. The diverse membership consists of local freelancers, businesses and organisations that span the creative industries spectrum; from animation to architecture, design to drama, fashion to film and typography to textiles. In the true spirit of community, access to the platform is free and it is used to promote professional services, showcase new products, source work opportunities and exchange ideas.

Over the past few years, the RSVP London network has taken on a life of its own, with many members regularly publishing examples of their work and news about exhibitions, courses and opportunities for funding. Word-of-mouth has spread across London and the site now attracts 22,000 unique visitors per month. The concept has been proven to strengthen the competitive advantage of local creative services by growing constructive relationships and connecting service providers with customers. The London Development Agency has now commissioned a pilot project called 'Creative Clusters' to deliver business support for members of the RSVP network, which aims to bridge the skills gap by providing a skills matchmaking service as well as sign-posting to business development advice.

Most recently, RSVP London has been undergoing a significant new stage in its evolution, taking its network functionality to a new level for all its members.

And you'll be pleased to know we still get together in person now and then for the music and food side of things¦