Two Sets of Rules, the Good and Bad?

[OldTrees1]

NorthernPhoenix and PhoenixPhyre both seem to hold this position, that DMs should never use PHB rules for NPCs. (99.999999% says PhoenixPhyre, but unless she gives an example this seems like an assertion of "never.")

One of the quotes in question was:

Should be allowed to? Of course. DMs can do whatever they want.

Is there a better, easier way 99.999999% of the time (exaggerating for effect)? Also yes.

1) They say DMs should be able to use the PHB when creating encounters.
2) They suspect there is almost always a "better / easier" way.

This does not sound like either extreme. It shows a strong preference for one method and says both methods should be available to the DM.