The document discusses operational research (OR) studies being conducted by MCHIP grantees to evaluate different community health approaches and build the evidence base. It notes the challenges in evaluating complex community programs using traditional study designs. The grantees are exploring a variety of research topics using formats ranging from formative studies to cluster randomized trials. Examples include evaluating combined homestead food production and nutrition actions in Nepal, and a community financing scheme for midwives in Chitral district. The role of MCHIP is to provide guidance and support to ensure the OR studies are focused and can be implemented practically within the projects.