[en] Presented is a study of the general features of rotationally inelastic atom-symmetric top collision systems. This was made possible by employing a newly-developed exponential distorted wave procedure to calculate cross sections rapidly and accurately. It is demonstrated that consideration of the symmetry properties of symmetric tops leads to a reduction in the dimensionality of scattering equations and significant labor savings. Physical trends observed in cross sections and rate constants are shown to be understandable in terms of energetic and coupling concepts. (Auth.)