"Better" is a relative term. If you're looking for an easier to develop program, you may want to try Filemaker Pro. However, database development requires thought, hard work, and patience, no matter what software you use.

Access has the advantage of being part of a suite, thereby allowing tighter integration with Word, Excel, and Outlook.

After working with dBase (II, III and IV), Access is light years ahead.

If you want to compare various database programs, the article here might be a place to start. (Have you checked out Paradox?)

Thanks for the info everyone I will look into what you all have said.