I was wondering if anyone here had come up with some interesting non-combat checks that they use in their campaigns. I am usually able to whip a quick combat or mechanics/computers encounter for my players when they surprise me but I am having difficulty making spontaneous social encounters, any ideas?

As mentioned in other threads, dont sweat small checks if they dont matter or dont have the possibily of something interesting happening. Players should be running into NPC's and characters everywhere they go. I try to make memorable personalities even if the Party wont run into them ever again. Here are some ideas of non-combat NPC's a party could run into...

Beggars, panhandlers and people in desperate need of medical attention or help

Security/Law enforcement patrols - forge documents about licenses to carry restricted equipment, run/chase scene to lose 'heat' ala Grand Theft Auto. Use disguises to avoid recognition/bounties

Customs Inspectors - bribes to avoid contraband search, deceive with fake manifests, coerce that they will bring great harm if stopped

Planetary traffic control agents - fake transponders, bribes/charms for faster/better access/parking

Strangers/bounty hunters mistaking group members for someone else

Racists/sexist or someone offended by what group did

Legit businessmen trying to sell something, need help/workers/cargo moved

Lots and lots of scams, ripoff & con artists! (wanna buy some bacta?...turns out its blue lava lamp juice)

I abide by the no small boring checks though I still have certain players insist on making a melee check to cut rope . I am trying to make investing in social skills more "worthwhile" for the characters

Social encounters are where it's at. Determine what your group wants, and have them roleplay a conversation with their target(s). Successes from either party deal Strain damage, and once a target's strain threshold is exceeded, he capitulates.

Social encounters are where it's at. Determine what your group wants, and have them roleplay a conversation with their target(s). Successes from either party deal Strain damage, and once a target's strain threshold is exceeded, he capitulates.

Strain, or occasionally Wounds - if your social encounter is with a Chris Brown-like character.

Remember, Annakin shows us in Episode III that domestic violence is a stop on the path to the Dark Side.