Procrustean

That which forces users to conform to an arbitrary specification, rather than designing a specification with the users in mind.

Procrustes, a businessman of Greek mythology, forced his guests to fit his bed by stretching them on a rack or lopping off limbs, as necessary. Does this remind anyone of Microsoft?

Pro*crus"te*an (?), a.

Of or pertaining to Procrustes, or the mode of torture practiced by him; producing conformity by violent means; as, the Procrustean treatment; a Procrustean limit. See Procrustes.

© Webster 1913.