Slow access to server data from database application

[Klegy]

A custom built database (paradox/delphi) program runs on an NT workstation accessing data held on a network server (running NTserver). The machines are not particularly fast but have no problems accessing server data with other applications (eg.Sage). Basically the client machine accesses data pretty quick when the application starts, then slows to a snails pace soon after. Closing the database application reinvigorates the program and data, once again, is quickly accessed.
Has anybody got ideas on why this happens and, more importantly, how I can improve the situation without spending money on better spec machines?

 

[wolluf]

Have you tried running the client software directly on the server to see if the same thing happens (2 obvious possibilities are its a network problem or its a database problem).

Also - run the client software on a 2k/XP machine with better spec - again to compare what happens?