Microsoft Corp plans to cancel about half the 20 shows it launched on the television-like version of the Microsoft Network four months ago; according to Reuters, nearly 200 contract workers creating the channels will not have their contracts renewed – but the same thing happens on the network television channels when new shows do not achieve high enough ratings. The shows that are getting canceled were not identified, although the Los Angeles Times fingered the comedy 15 Seconds of Fame and the soap opera 475 Madison Avenue, but were unable to attract sufficient advertising. People affected are in production, marketing and software development, but the on-line service continues to seek creative talent to develop new shows. The company has lined up 14 new shows.