He could have been talking about most software dev shops:

"There is nothing more difficult...than the introduction of a new
order of things. Because the innovator has for enemies all those who
have done well under the old conditions, and lukewarm defenders in
those who may do well under the new. This coolness rises...partly
from the incredulity of men, who do not readily believe in new things
until they have had long experience with them."

--Machiavelli