Call (323) 285-0939 If your Access database is slow, throwing errors, or locking up in multi-user work, we can get it running smoothly fast. We fix forms, reports, corruption, and the query/index issues that cause the slowdown.
In Bellflower, we often inherit Access files that started small and then grew through imports and spreadsheets. The first warning sign is usually a report that goes from seconds to minutes.
When the file has outgrown Access tables, we keep Access as the front end and move data to SQL Server for better speed and reliability. Call (323) 285-0939 for a free consultation and a clear plan.
The Best Microsoft Access Database Solutions owner, consultant, and principal programmer is Alison Balter - a recognized expert Microsoft Access consultant. Alison is the author of 15 Microsoft Access training books and videos. She is a frequent guest speaker at MS Access conferences and has developed hundreds of applications for businesses of all types.
We know your business data is important; we listen to your concerns, ask questions, and gather information from all stakeholders. We discuss your needs and requirements for your database. We find out what you want, why you need various features so we can obtain as much information as possible. Once we have the information we need, we work with you to design the proper database architecture, plus the dashboards, the questions (queries), forms, and reports you need for an excellent database system.
We also create websites designed for speed to display your data accurately, using ASP.NET technology. Fast, secure, and robust, our ASP.NET websites and web applications give you a true business tool for finding and displaying information dynamically on the web.

Answer: Most of the time it comes down to the form's RecordSource and what happens on load. A form that pulls a wide table, runs calculated fields, or triggers requery calls can feel slow even on new hardware. We usually start by trimming the query, indexing the join fields, and confirming the form is only loading the records the user actually needs.
Answer: A bound form is fine, but binding directly to a big table often invites trouble. In practice, a query-based RecordSource gives you better control: you can limit columns, filter early, and keep the UI responsive. For Bellflower users with larger datasets, that one change can be the difference between a form that feels snappy and one that drags.
Answer: Subform issues usually trace back to Link Master Fields / Link Child Fields, or a query that is not uniquely keyed. When Access can't identify a unique record, updates can behave unpredictably. We fix this by validating relationships, adding a proper primary key where needed, and making sure each subform query returns one row per record.
Answer: Not automatically. Macros are great for straightforward navigation, opening forms, and simple validation. The problems start when a stack of macros becomes the application's main logic, especially when there's no error handling or consistent naming. We can document what you have, clean up the macro flow, and convert the right pieces to VBA where it makes the system easier to maintain.
Answer: Yes, if it's done carefully. We don't convert everything just because we can. We look for hotspots: macros that run on every click, macros that touch data, or macros that silently fail. Then we replace them with VBA that includes clear error handling, logging when appropriate, and the same user experience you already rely on.
Answer: Common causes include broken macro names, missing referenced objects, or event properties that were reset during an import or a compact/repair cycle. Another frequent culprit is multiple versions of the front end floating around, so the button you are clicking is pointing at code that is not the latest. The fix is usually part cleanup, part deployment: one known-good front end per user, plus a quick review of event bindings.
Answer: Data macros run at the table level and can enforce certain rules when records are inserted, updated, or deleted. They are useful for a few specific scenarios, but they do not replace VBA. If you need rich form behavior, conditional UI, integrations, or detailed validation messages, VBA is still the practical tool. We can use both together when it makes sense.
Answer: The signal is usually not the number of forms. It's the data volume, the number of concurrent users, and how often you see locking conflicts or long waits on saves. A common pattern we hear from Bellflower owners is, "It worked fine last year, and now everyone is complaining." In that case, keeping Access as the front end while moving tables to SQL Server can improve reliability without forcing a rebuild of your screens.
Get more information about our programming services on the Microsoft Access programmer Beverly Hill, California web page.