I sort of like the idea, but how would they work? RPA only?

I was hoping that it would be a mix of RP and tangible rewards. For example:

You're a smith in the Merchant's Guild who wants to get a leg up on the competition, and so you spend a X amount if IP to hire a contact for a week to give you ...

I was rummaging through the IP helpfiles when I happened to stumble upon the word "Contacts". Struck by a sudden bolt of inspiration, I attempted to bring up a Contacts helpfile-to no avail. And now I'm practically drooling over this wonderful, brilliant idea that has yet to be implemented.

BUT WHY ...