The top down planning problem

I recently came across a fantastic, but sadly unattributed, quote in an article about design:

“A design system is like public transportation: it’s a good idea, for other people”

— unattributed designer

I think this is a great turn of phrase. Top down planning is always a good idea, for other people. I haven’t met any individuals, or heads of departments, yet that want to be top down planned. They want to be bottom up contributing.